One person has died and over 275 others have fallen ill with E. coli in the United Kingdom in the past month. The outbreak was linked to lettuce in pre-packed sandwiches, according to health officials. Two patients with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli died in May, but only one of the deaths was likely connected to the infection. Both individuals who died had underlying medical conditions.
E. coli bacteria typically reside in the intestines of healthy individuals and animals, causing no harm. However, some strains can lead to various conditions such as urinary tract infections, cystitis, intestinal infections, and vomiting. In severe cases, E. coli can cause life-threatening blood poisoning. More than 80% of those affected by the recent outbreak experienced bloody diarrhea.
To address the situation, companies responsible for producing sandwiches sold by major grocery stores and retail chains in the UK issued voluntary recalls of sandwiches, wraps, and salads beginning June 14. Fortunately, new cases of E. coli have decreased in recent weeks. The investigation into the source of the outbreak is ongoing as health officials work to prevent further spread of the infection.
The UK Health Security Agency reported that two patients with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli died in May, but only one of the deaths was likely connected to the infection.
Ecoli bacteria typically reside in the intestines of healthy individuals and animals, causing no harm.
However, some strains can lead to various conditions such as urinary tract infections
