Lawyer's concern as one person dies and more than 200 fall ill in UK salmonella outbreak linked to imported eggs

As a lawyer who supports people affected by serious food poisoning, including salmonella, I'm deeply concerned by the latest UK Health Security Agency report confirming a national salmonella outbreak in the UK.

According to the Health Protection Report, as of 13 August, 207 confirmed cases had been reported, with the majority of cases being this year. 

One death has been associated with the outbreak, while more than 70 people were admitted to hospital, and two people developed bloodstream infections. Cases have been reported across the UK, with most in England, including 47 in London and 38 in Yorkshire and Humber. 

The outbreak involves a single strain of Salmonella Enteritidis, identified through whole genome sequencing. UKHSA has said this indicates a common source of contamination. 

Since the UKHSA report was published, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has said that while the exact cause hasn't yet been identified, investigations have so far have identified a link to eggs imported into the UK and mainly used by food service and catering establishments such as restaurants or cafes, as a potential source. The FSA said there was “no evidence that UK-produced eggs were affected.

While that clarification is important, it doesn't lessen the need for a full investigation. For those affected, particularly those who have required hospital treatment or who have lost a loved one, the distinction between a suspected source and a confirmed source will matter greatly. 

What is salmonella and what is its impact?

Salmonella is a bacterial infection and one of the most common causes of foodborne illness. It can be spread through contaminated food, including eggs, poultry, meat, unpasteurised dairy and fresh produce, as well as through contact with contaminated environments or, in some cases, person-to-person transmission. 

For many people, salmonella causes a gastrointestinal illness which resolves without specialist treatment. However, in my experience salmonella should never be dismissed as just a stomach bug. For some, particularly young children, older people, pregnant people and those who are immunocompromised, the consequences can be far more serious.

Symptoms can include diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting and fever. In more severe cases, salmonella can lead to bloodstream infection, sepsis and multi-organ failure. That is why outbreaks of this nature require urgent investigation, transparency and clear public health action. 

What needs to happen now?

I welcome that the UKHSA and other public health agencies are investigating. However, those affected will understandably want clear answers as to how this happened, whether contamination was linked to imported eggs, how contaminated food may have entered the supply chain, whether businesses have following appropriate food safety procedures and what steps are being taken to prevent further illness.

The immediate priority must be identifying the source and origin of the contamination. 

Where food businesses have been linked to cases, there needs to be a thorough review of food safety management, hygiene practices, supply chains, egg handling, storage, cooking processes and cross-contamination risks. That many of those affected reported eating food prepared outside the home makes it important that catering and hospitality businesses are supported, and where necessary challenged, to ensure that safe systems are in place. 

Public messaging also needs to remain clear. The FSA has advised that eggs which are thoroughly cooked and handled hygienically shouldn't present a food safety risk. Infants, young children, pregnant people and older adults should only eat raw or runny eggs if they have a British Lion mark or are produced under the Laid in Britain assurance scheme. 

The FSA has also reminded people handling eggs, eggshells or egg packaging to wash their hands thoroughly with warm water and soap and dry them properly afterwards. 

Anyone who believes they may have been affected should seek medical advice, report their illness to the authorities and keep records of symptoms, medical treatment, receipts and any communications.

Legal support for those affected

As a lawyer who supports people affected by serious food poisoning, including salmonella, it's vital that those affected aren't left in the dark. Salmonella can be life-changing for some people.

Those affected may also wish to understand their rights. I've supported many people affected by serious gastrointestinal infections and understand how distressing these illnesses can be. 

People who have become unwell, and families who have suffered a bereavement, deserve answers, support and reassurance that lessons will be learned. 

While the risk to the general public is currently described as low, this outbreak is a stark reminder that food safety must remain a priority at every stage, from supply chain to plate.

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting people affected by food poisoning and what their legal rights are at our dedicated food poisoning claims section.