E. Coli: 27 confirmed cases in Wales in outbreak linked to lettuce in some supermarket sandwiches

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Some sandwiches sold at major supermarkets, including Aldi, Asda, the Co-op and Morrisons, have been recalled following an outbreak of E. coli linked to lettuce leaves.

The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that 27 cases of E. coli infection have been reported in Wales since 25 May.

In total, 211 cases linked to the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O145 outbreak have been identified in the UK.

The UKHSA says it expects this number may rise as genome sequencing efforts continue to identify more cases.

Trish Mannes, director of incidents at UKHSA, said: “We would like to thank all the cases that provided information which enabled us to narrow down the likely food product associated with this outbreak through epidemiological analysis of questionnaire data and food surveillance investigations. .”

“Symptoms of infections with STEC include severe and sometimes bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and fever.”

“If you are unwell, have recently eaten lettuce and are concerned about any symptoms, follow NHS.uk’s guidance on when to seek help and what steps you can take to prevent further spread to family and friends.”

“While diarrhea and vomiting can have a number of causes, there are simple steps you can take to reduce your risk and the risk of infecting others.”

“Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using disinfectants to clean surfaces will help stop further spread of infection.”

“If you are unwell with diarrhea and vomiting, you should not prepare food for others when you are unwell and avoid visiting people in hospitals or nursing homes to prevent transmission of infection in these conditions.”

“Do not return to work, school or daycare until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped.”

Darren Whitby, head of incidents at the Food Standards Agency (FSA), highlighted ongoing efforts to identify the source of the outbreak. “Sandwich manufacturers are recalling various sandwiches, wraps, subs and rolls as a precaution,” he said.

Mr Whitby also stressed the importance of food safety and noted that the FSA would not hesitate to take the necessary measures to ensure public safety.

Greencore, a major supplier to UK supermarkets such as Asda, Sainsbury’s, Boots, Aldi and the Co-op, is one of the manufacturers to recall products.

A Greencore spokesman said: “We have voluntarily recalled a range of sandwiches and wraps due to a potential food safety risk. We are working closely with the FSA and our suppliers to better understand the issue.”

The recalled products include a range of sandwiches and wraps from various retailers, such as Aldi’s Chicken Fajita Triple Wrap and Amazon’s BLT Sandwich.

Wendi Shepherd, health consultant for Public Health Wales, urged individuals with serious symptoms to seek medical help immediately. “Public Health Wales is working with partners in the UK and across the Welsh NHS to investigate this incident,” Shepherd said.

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