At least 86 people infected with E. coli rushed to hospital in outbreak

At least 86 people infected with E. coli were rushed to hospital in the recent outbreak likely triggered by pre-packaged sandwiches , health officials have confirmed. The total number of confirmed cases now stands at 256 in the UK, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said in its latest update.

It added that an analysis of 227 cases to date shows 38 per cent were admitted to hospital, bringing the overall number hospitalised to more than 86. Although the rate of cases has now slowed, as of 18 June, there had been a further 45 infections since the previous update issued by the UKHSA four days before – and the government agency warned the number is expected to continue to rise as some samples from patients are yet to be tested. However, all currently confirmed cases developed symptoms before 31 May.

The UKHSA said initial findings have pointed to pre-packaged sandwich products containing lettuce as the likely source of the outbreak – but investigations are still ongoing to confirm the cause of the outbreak. A number of food manufacturers have recalled sandwiches, wraps and salads sold in major supermarkets and retail chains over fears they are linked to the outbreak. Darren Whitby, Head of Incidents at the Food Standards Agency ( FSA ), which is investigating the outbreak alongside the UKHSA, said: “We continue to work at pace with the relevant businesses and local authorities to ensure necessary steps are being taken to protect consumers.

“Although we are confident in.