Salmonella Outbreak Infects 207 as UK Cases Hit Decade High from Imported Eggs

A year-long salmonella outbreak believed to be linked to imported eggs has affected 207 people across the UK, hospitalising more than one-third. One death has been associated with the outbreak. The UK Health Security Agency launched its investigation on 26 May 2026 after detecting cases caused by a single bacterial strain spanning from 11 August 2025 through 1 August 2026.

Among the 207 cases, 199 were in England, six in Scotland, one in Wales, and one in Northern Ireland. London recorded 47 cases and Yorkshire and Humber 38. The outbreak spanned all age groups, from infants to people aged 90. Two people developed potentially life-threatening bloodstream infections.

The 38% hospitalization rate reflects significant severity. Salmonella cases in England reached 10,406 in 2025, the highest in a decade according to UKHSA data released 28 May 2026, compared to 10,389 in 2024. Campylobacter cases fell from 70,392 to 69,394 over the same period, leaving salmonella as the infection whose trend moved upward.

Dr Gauri Godbole, UKHSA Deputy Director for Gastrointestinal Infections, said: “We are seeing consistently high levels of gastrointestinal infections in England. We continue to work closely with partners to detect, investigate, and stop the spread of these infections.” Dr James Cooper, FSA Deputy Director of Food Policy, stated: “Public safety is our highest priority and we’re working closely with UKHSA and other partners to understand the reasons behind the rise in Campylobacter and Salmonella cases, so we can take the necessary action to protect public health.”

No country of origin, producer or brand has been identified publicly, and no product recall has been announced.

Symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever. The UKHSA advises that anyone with these symptoms should not handle food for others, should not return to work, and that children should not attend school or nursery until at least 48 hours after symptoms clear. Salmonella generally causes a self-limiting gastroenteritis.

The outbreak comprises 207 confirmed cases recorded across the UK between 11 August 2025 and 1 August 2026. More than one-third required hospitalization. One death was associated with the outbreak, and two cases involved bloodstream infections. The UKHSA investigation into the source of the outbreak continues, with guidance focused on excluding symptomatic individuals and maintaining standard food-safety practices.