E coli Death : One Person in England Died From E coli Outbreak, UK Health Security Agency says

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that the death of an individual in England has been linked to the ongoing E. coli outbreak. Last week, it was revealed that lettuce is the source of the outbreak.

The UKHSA reported that two people in England have died within 28 days of being infected with the current strain. According to clinical information, "one of these deaths is likely linked to their STEC infection." Both individuals had underlying medical conditions and passed away in May.

Since the outbreak began, at least 122 people have been hospitalized. The current case totals are 182 in England, 58 in Scotland, 31 in Wales, and four in Northern Ireland. The UKHSA noted that "evidence suggests" the Northern Ireland cases "acquired their infection in England." 

As of June 25, an additional 19 cases were reported in the past seven days, bringing the total number of confirmed infections across the UK to 275. All registered cases exhibited symptoms before June 4.

Several food manufacturers have recalled sandwiches, wraps, and salads sold in major retail chains due to concerns they may be linked to the outbreak. E. coli is a diverse group of normally harmless bacteria that live in the intestines of humans and animals. However, some strains produce toxins that can cause severe illness, such as STEC (Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli).

Despite a decrease in the number of reported infections, the UKHSA anticipates more cases as samples are still being referred from the NHS and "whole genome sequencing" is being conducted. 

Symptoms of the infection include "severe and sometimes bloody diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting and fever," said Amy Douglas, the UKHSA's incident director. She advised taking simple steps to avoid infection, such as washing hands with soap and warm water and using disinfectants to clean surfaces.

Those who are unwell should avoid preparing food for others and visiting hospitals or care homes, and should not return to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped.

Darren Whitby, head of incidents at the Food Standards Agency, described the investigation as "complex." He stated, "We continue to work with the relevant businesses and local authorities to ensure necessary steps are being taken to protect consumers. 

Although we are confident in the likely source of the outbreak being linked to lettuce, work continues to confirm this and identify the root cause of the outbreak with the growers, suppliers, and manufacturers so that actions can be taken to prevent a recurrence."