The number hospitalized by E coli reaches 86 as the lettuce outbreak grows in Britain
At least 86 people are now hospitalized due to an E coli outbreak linked to lettuce, health officials said.
A further 45 cases of E coli infection have been confirmed since June 18, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the UK to 256, with those affected having developed symptoms before May 31, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The UKHSA said: “Although the number of cases has now fallen, we expect this figure to rise as NHS laboratories refer specimens to UKHSA for genomic sequencing, which can link cases to this outbreak strain.”
Food manufacturers have recalled sandwiches, wraps and salads sold in major supermarkets and chain stores over fears they are linked to the outbreak.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has said lettuce is the likely source of the outbreak. All recorded cases involve Shiga toxin-producing E coli O145 (Stec).
Darren Whitby, incident lead at the FSA, said: “Several sandwich manufacturers have now taken precautionary measures to withdraw and recall various sandwiches, wraps, subs and rolls as the food chain and epidemiological links have allowed us to identify a wide range of limit products. food consumed to a small number of lettuce leaves used in these products.
“This remains a complex investigation and we continue to work closely with the relevant companies and local authorities to ensure the necessary steps are taken to protect consumers.”
He added: “While we are confident that the source of the outbreak is linked to a small number of lettuce leaves, which we identified early on through extensive food chain analysis, the work continues identify the cause of the outbreak with growers and suppliers. and manufacturers, so that action can be taken to prevent recurrence.
“We will remain vigilant until the root cause of the outbreak is confirmed and we remain open to possible causes of the outbreak.”
E coli is a large group of bacteria, some strains of which produce toxins that can make people seriously ill. Symptoms include bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps and high fever.
Other complications may include thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), in which blood clots form throughout the body as a result of the disease. Some patients may also develop hemolytic uremic syndrome, which is associated with kidney failure and can cause life-threatening complications.
Stec is often transmitted by eating contaminated food, but can also be spread through close contact with an infected person, as well as through direct contact with an infected animal or where it lives.
People are advised to call NHS 111 or contact their GP if they are concerned about a baby under 12 months, if a child stops breast or bottle feeding while ill, if a child under five has any signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet diapers and if older children or adults still show signs of dehydration after using oral rehydration sachets.