More than 35 people have fallen sick in an E. coli outbreak in the United Kingdom. The Shiga toxin-producing E.
coli (STEC) outbreak has had 36 cases across the UK since November 2023. Patient interviews have identified raisins from Turkey as a potential source, and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has raised the issue with Turkish authorities. Border control posts have been advised about the possible link and encouraged to conduct surveillance sampling.
Ongoing investigations Jane Rawling, head of incidents at the FSA, said: “The FSA is working in partnership with UKHSA, retailers and other authorities after being made aware of several cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli. “Enquiries have yet to confirm a common source.
If the FSA identifies a food safety risk, we will swiftly ensure products are removed from sale and inform consumers.” The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) declined to answer any questions about the outbreak, so it is unclear what type of E. coli is behind illnesses.
Dr. Gauri Godbole, deputy director in gastrointestinal pathogens at UKHSA, said: “In recent months, UKHSA has observed higher-than-average levels of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli notifications across England, detected as part of routine surveillance.
“There is no single cause behind this, and routine investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of individual outbreaks. We continue working closely with FSA and local authorities to identify the cause of outbreaks and take the appro.