One person dies in England during ongoing E.coli outbreak

One person in England has died as a result of the ongoing E.coli outbreak, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.

Although two people in England have died within 28 days of being infected with the current strain, information from doctors suggests that “one of these deaths is likely to be related to their STEC infection”, the UKHSA said.

Both individuals had underlying medical conditions and both died in May.

Current case totals are as follows: 182 in England; 58 in Scotland; 31 in Wales; and four in Northern Ireland, although “it appears that” those four “acquired their infection in England,” the health agency added.

At least 122 people have been hospitalized for treatment since the outbreak began.

By June 25, a further 19 cases had been reported in the last seven-day period.

It brings the total number of confirmed infections in the UK to 275.

All currently recorded cases showed symptoms before June 4.

Last week it turned out that there was an outbreak can be traced back to lettuce.

A number of food manufacturers have done that recalled sandwiches, wraps and salads sold in major retail chains over concerns they could be linked to the outbreak.

STEC is an abbreviation for Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli.

Although the UKHSA said the number of reported infections is declining, it expects more to follow.

This is because samples are still being referred by the NHS and ‘whole genome sequencing’ is being carried out.

Symptoms include “severe and sometimes bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting and fever,” says Amy Douglas, incident director for the UKHSA.

Simple steps to avoid becoming infected include washing your hands with soap and warm water and using disinfectants to clean surfaces, she added.

Those who are not feeling well should not prepare food for others and avoid visiting people in hospitals or care homes.

They are also advised not to return to work, school or daycare until 48 hours after their symptoms have disappeared.

(c) Sky News 2024: One person in England dies in ongoing E.coli outbreak