The number of confirmed Salmonella cases across three outbreaks potentially linked to imported eggs has risen to 549 in England, according to the latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency.

The health body is investigating three clusters of Salmonella Enteritidis alongside the Food Standards Agency and other public health partners, with evidence suggesting imported eggs could be a common source.

As of 7 September, UKHSA had recorded 322 confirmed cases in the largest t5.9411 cluster, up 17 from the previous week’s update.

A further 186 cases have been confirmed in the t0.24068 cluster, an increase of four, while the third t5.9765 cluster remains at 41 cases.

This takes the combined number of confirmed cases across the three clusters in England to 549, up 21 in a week. Two deaths have been associated with the outbreaks – one in the t5.9411 cluster and another in the t5.9765 cluster.

UKHSA said cases continue to be associated with eating at a range of food outlets, including independent cafés, restaurants and takeaway businesses.

Investigations have yet to establish the exact source of the outbreaks, but epidemiological evidence and food supply chain investigations have identified links with eggs imported into the UK.

The FSA has stressed that there is currently no evidence UK-produced eggs are affected.

Hannah Charles, lead epidemiologist at UKHSA, said investigations continued to indicate a link with imported eggs but remained ongoing.

She added that the “overall risk to the public remains low”, with UKHSA continuing to follow up cases and investigate potential common sources.

Food businesses urged to follow egg safety guidance

The outbreaks have put renewed attention on egg sourcing and handling across the food supply chain, particularly among catering and foodservice operators using imported eggs.

Previous investigations found potential links to eggs used outside the home by food businesses and caterers, rather than eggs sold directly to consumers.

Professor Ian Young, chief scientific adviser at the FSA, said: “There is no evidence that UK-produced eggs are affected.”

The regulator said eggs which are thoroughly cooked and handled hygienically should not present a food safety risk.

It also advised young children, pregnant people and older adults to only consume raw or lightly cooked eggs when they carry the British Lion mark or are produced under the Laid in Britain assurance scheme.

The largest t5.9411 outbreak has affected people across all nine regions of England, with cases ranging from newborns to those aged 90.

Of the 171 cases in that cluster for which hospitalisation information was available, 42 had been admitted to hospital.

UKHSA said it will continue publishing updated figures on the three outbreaks each week while investigations remain ongoing.

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