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

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

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

A total of 211 cases linked to the outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O145 have been identified in Britain.

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

Trish Mannes, Incident Director at UKHSA, said: “We would like to thank all the cases who provided information which enabled us, through epidemiological analysis of questionnaire data and food tracing studies, to narrow down the likely food item associated with this outbreak. .”

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

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

“While diarrhea and vomiting can have a variety 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 can help prevent further spread of infection.”

“If you are feeling unwell with diarrhea and vomiting, you should not prepare food for others while you are unwell and you should avoid visiting people in hospitals or care homes to avoid passing on the infection in these settings.”

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

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 several sandwiches, wraps, subs and rolls out of an abundance of caution,” he said.

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

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

A Greencore spokesperson said: “We have voluntarily recalled a number 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 multiple retailers, such as Aldi’s Chicken Fajita Triple Wrap and Amazon’s BLT Sandwich.

Wendi Shepherd, health advisor for Public Health Wales, urged those with serious symptoms to seek immediate medical attention. “Public Health Wales is working with partners across the UK and the Welsh NHS to investigate this incident,” Ms Shepherd said.

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