The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is investigating a national outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis, after 207 confirmed cases, all sharing a single genetic strain, were identified between 11 August 2025 and 1 August 2026 — 206 of them reported in 2026.
Of the 199 cases in England, London recorded the most (47), with Yorkshire and Humber close behind on 38 — the second-highest total of any English region.
Cases range in age from under one to 90, with a median age of 30. UKHSA says more than a third of those for whom hospitalisation data is available needed hospital treatment, two developed serious blood poisoning, and one person has died.
Only six of the 207 cases (3%) reported travelling abroad, and the outbreak does not appear to be linked to international travel.
The strongest link
Most people fell ill after eating food prepared outside the home, and UKHSA says the strongest link so far is to dishes made with eggs, at food businesses supplied by imported eggs.
As of 13 August 2026, there is no identified link to UK-produced eggs or poultry.
The BBC reports that symptoms — including stomach cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting or fever — usually develop within 12 to 72 hours of infection, and that Hannah Charles, UKHSA’s lead epidemiologist for gastrointestinal infections, said the agency is working with the Food Standards Agency to trace the source.
Jacquelyn McCormick, head of incidents at the Food Standards Agency, told the BBC that vulnerable groups eating runny or raw eggs should stick to those carrying the British Lion mark or produced under the Laid in Britain assurance scheme.
Anyone concerned they may have symptoms is advised to contact their GP or an out-of-hours service.
