UK Health Radio – Medical News Update - Salmonella outbreak.

UK Health Radio – Medical News Update

Salmonella outbreak.

News today from the BBC that Public Health England is investigating an outbreak of Salmonella that, over the past few months, has affected 156 people in England.

Initial tests suggest that the cause of the illness, which is often linked to poultry or eggs, comes from a single source and the reported cases have been seen in Hampshire, London, Cheshire and the West Midlands. An infection with Salmonella can cause stomach cramps, diarrhoea, fever and vomiting.  However, most infected people will recover without treatment.

Work is on going with the Food Standards Agency, in local authorities and with other public health organisations in Europe to investigate the cause of this outbreak, Dr Paul Cleary, Public Health England told the BBC.

The strain of bacteria that is causing this outbreak of food poisoning, Salmonella Enteritidis, may also have affected people in France and Austria, the PHE said. Experts are looking at 55 cases in Hampshire, 25 in London and 33 in Cheshire.

They are also looking at 43 cases in the West Midlands, 34 of which were connected to an outbreak recorded at Birmingham’s’ Heartlands Hospital.

The hospital confirmed three of the people affected have died, but in two cases it was not related to Salmonella. The third has been referred to the coroner's court, but it is not clear on what grounds.

Dr Paul Cleary, a consultant epidemiologist leading the PHE investigation, said: "We are working with our colleagues across Public Health England, at the Food Standards Agency, in local authorities and with other public health organisations in Europe to investigate the cause of this outbreak.

"We are making good progress and hope to have more conclusive evidence shortly.

"We will continue to monitor the situation and if there is any further public health action necessary we will inform the public at large.

Public Health England's advice is to wash hands thoroughly before handling, preparing and eating food, and make sure all food is cooked properly before eating.

Amanda Thomas

UK Health Radio – Medical News Update

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