Salmonella cases have been detected across all of the UK’s nations over the past 12 months, with the latest outbreak linked to imported eggs.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), 38% of those affected by the outbreak have required hospitalisation, with one person succumbing to the bacteria.
Between 11 August 2025 and 1 August 2026, 207 cases were recorded in the UK, affecting people ranging from infants to those aged 90.
The outbreak has reached all four UK nations, but the vast majority of cases (199) have been recorded in England.
Regionally, 47 cases were detected in London, while Yorkshire and the Humber recorded 38.
At this stage, the UKHSA said its strongest lead suggests the strain originated in imported eggs, and there is no indication that any UK-produced eggs or poultry are responsible.
Symptoms caused by salmonella usually include fever, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) advises affected customers experiencing these symptoms to stay away from work, school or nursery until they have been symptom-free for at least 48 hours to avoid passing the infection to others.
Hannah Charles, lead epidemiologist for gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA, said: “We’re working with Food Standards Agency and other public health agencies to investigate a salmonella outbreak that may be linked to eggs imported from outside of the UK.
“Salmonellosis is often caused by eating or handling contaminated food and can, in rare cases, be spread from person to person.”
She continued: “Salmonella generally causes a mild illness, although vulnerable groups with weakened immune systems may experience more severe illness. Symptoms of a salmonella infection include diarrhoea, stomach cramps and sometimes vomiting and fever. Anyone who is concerned about symptoms should contact their GP or out-of-hours service in the first instance.
“There are simple steps to prevent the spread of salmonella: wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and before preparing and handling food, cook food thoroughly, and if you have any symptoms, avoid handling food for others where possible.”