474 Cases, Two Deaths in Three UK Salmonella Outbreaks Likely Linked to Imported Eggs
The UK Health Security Agency is investigating three clusters of Salmonella Enteritidis linked to imported eggs, which have resulted in 474 illnesses and two deaths. The agency is using whole genome sequencing to track the outbreaks across the UK and Europe.
Why it matters
This outbreak underscores the public health risks associated with food supply chains and the importance of international surveillance in managing foodborne illnesses.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is investigating three Salmonella Enteritidis outbreak clusters potentially associated with imported eggs, which have collectively caused 474 confirmed illnesses and two deaths in England.
As of August 25, 2026, the largest cluster, designated S. Enteritidis t5.9411 , includes 259 confirmed cases and one death , with illness dates ranging from August 11, 2025–August 8, 2026. UKHSA said recent investigations suggested that the outbreak may be associated with imported eggs, with cases linked to eating at small cafés, restaurants, and takeaway businesses.
UKHSA has also identified increases in two genetically distinct but related S. Enteritidis clusters, t0.24068 and t5.9765. Epidemiological and food exposure information, together with the genetic relationships among the clusters, suggested that all three outbreaks could be associated with imported eggs, according to the agency.
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