At least 86 people are now hospitalized due to an E. coli outbreak linked to lettuce, health officials said.
Data from the UK Health Security Agency shows that there had been a further 45 cases of infection on Tuesday this week, bringing the number of confirmed victims in the UK to 256.
All those affected first developed symptoms before May 31.
The UKHSA said: ‘Although the number of cases has now fallen, we expect the figure to rise as NHS laboratories refer specimens to UKHSA for genomic sequencing, which can link cases to this outbreak strain.’
Several food manufacturers have recalled sandwiches, wraps and salads sold in major supermarkets and chain stores amid fears they may be linked to the outbreak.
The Food Standards Agency said the lettuce used in the products is believed to be the cause of the outbreak.
All registered cases involve Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O145 (Stec).
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Stec is often transmitted by eating contaminated food, but can also be spread through close contact with an infected person, as well as through direct contact with an infected animal or where it lives.
Darren Whitby, the FSA’s incident lead, said: ‘Several sandwich manufacturers have now taken precautionary measures to withdraw and recall various sandwiches, wraps, subs and rolls as the food chain and epidemiological links have allowed us to have a wide limit the range of foods consumed. to a small number of lettuce leaves used in these products.
‘This remains a complex investigation and we continue to work closely with the relevant companies and local authorities to ensure the necessary steps are taken to protect consumers.
“While we are confident that the source of the outbreak is linked to a small number of lettuce leaves, which we identified early through extensive food chain analysis, efforts are being made in collaboration with growers, suppliers and manufacturers Still working to identify the root cause of the outbreak. that measures can be taken to prevent recurrence.
‘We will remain vigilant until the root cause of the outbreak is confirmed and we remain open to possible causes of the outbreak.’
People are advised to call NHS 111 or contact their GP if they are concerned about a baby under 12 months of age, a child stopping breast or bottle feeding whilst ill, a child under five showing signs of shows dehydration, such as fewer wet diapers.
You should also call NHS 111 or contact your GP if older children or adults still show signs of dehydration after using oral rehydration sachets.
Those showing symptoms of infection should contact NHS 111 or their GP.