UKHSA investigating after 'rare' bug left 54 ill, 10 in hospital

The infection can leave people ill for 10 years and has been linked to arthritis, but is rarely seen in Europe

The UK Health Security Agency is investigating an outbreak of a rare bug that left 54 people in the UK ill and 10 in hospital. The outbreak has been identified as Salmonella Blockley, a rare strain of the food poisoning bug which the UKHSA says is 'particularly sever'.

The strain has been seen in the USA and in east Asia but is rarely seen in Europe. The UKHSA said the source of the outbreak is currently unknown. The UKHSA said that as of the end of 2024, 54 cases of the bug had been found in the UK, and some were resisting antibiotics.

There were 36 cases in England, seven in Wales and 11 in Scotland, between July 27 and Aug 24 last year according to the new report. The UKHSA says its investigation is still open.

Most of the patients were aged between 50 and 59 but the youngest was two, and the oldest 85. The UKHSA said: "There are early indications of greater than expected clinical severity of infection," adding that 10 people had been hospitalised by the bug.

Studies have previously found that the strain of salmonella can cause symptoms up to 10 years after infection, and a 2006 report linked it to a case of arthritis in a previously healthy young man.

Previous outbreaks outside the Ukl have been linked to chicken, eels and ice cream. The UKHSA said a national level investigation was now being carried out because ofthe number of cases.

None of those infected are believed to have travelled before their infection, but they may have eaten foods that were imported.

A UKHSA spokesperson said it is believed there have been no further cases of S. Blockleysince last year but it is asking health professionals to look out for symptoms.

A spokesman said: "Gastrointestinal bacteria, such as Salmonella, can be spread from person to person as well as from food. A nyone with diarrhoea or vomiting should wash their hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and avoid handling food or preparing food for others where possible.

"Please avoid returning to work or sending unwell children to school or nursery until at least 48 hours after symptoms have cleared."

Salmonella Blockley is a serotype of Salmonella enterica, a bacterium that causes foodborne illness in humans and animals. It belongs to the Salmonella serogroup C1 and has been associated with outbreaks of gastroenteritis. It causes typical salmonellosis symptoms, including diarrhoea, fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting.

It is mainly spread through contaminated food and poor hygiene. Some strains of S. Blockley have shown resistance to multiple antibiotics, making treatment more challenging in severe cases.

Proper food handling, thorough cooking, and good hygiene can help prevent infection.