Surge in deadly E coli cases linked to contaminated salad leaves that killed two people

Health officials have warned of a surge in deadly E coli infections following an outbreak linked to contaminated salad leaves that killed two people last year.

Infections of shiga toxin E coli (Stec) rose by 26 per cent to 2,544 cases in 2024, partly driven by the salad outbreak, which led to 196 cases, 11 people developing life-threatening complications and 126 people needing hospital treatment.

The findings come after the Food Standards Agency issued an alert for the recall of sandwiches, wraps and salads sold at major supermarkets, including Aldi, Asda, Amazon, Boots, Morrisons, and Co-operative, Tesco and WH Smith, in June last year.

The warning prompted Greencore Group, Samworth Brothers Manton Wood and THIS!, to withdraw 45 products from sale over fears they were contaminated with the harmful bug that can cause life-threatening kidney failure and death.

Of the 2,544 cases last year, there were seven deaths and 467 cases were linked to five separate outbreaks across the UK, with 348 of those in England. The sources of the outbreaks were contaminated beef, fresh fruit, and salad leaves.

Children aged 1 to 4 years were most affected by Stec, with 357 cases recorded, prompting the health authority to urge parents to remind children to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and hot water before eating.

Stec bacteria spread through contact with animals or their faeces, consuming contaminated food or water, and from person to person.

UKHSA said children have a higher rate of infection, probably because their immune systems are still developing, worse hygiene practices, and are often exposed after coming into contact with farm animals, particularly at petting farms.

Travel-related cases also increased by 60 per cent from 114 in 2023 to 183 in 2024.

Dr Gauri Godbole, deputy director, gastrointestinal infections, food safety and one health at UKHSA, said: “Stec cases rose by around a quarter in 2024. While this rise is partly due to one foodborne outbreak, we have been seeing Stec cases gradually increase since 2022, and therefore it's important for people to take steps to prevent infection.

“If you have any Stec symptoms, like mild to bloody diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting and dehydration, wash your hands with soap and warm water and use bleach-based products to clean surfaces. Don't prepare food for others if you have symptoms or for 48 hours after symptoms stop.”

Natasha Smith, director of food policy at the Food Standards Agency, said: “Public safety is our highest priority. The FSA works closely with UKHSA and other partners to monitor and assess the latest foodborne disease data. We are working together to understand the reasons behind the rise in Stec cases, as well as trends in other pathogens, to help us take the necessary action to protect public health.”

It said people can reduce their risk of getting food poisoning at home by following good hygiene practices on the correct ways to chill, clean, cook, and avoid cross-contamination of food.