The actual number of salmonella infections in an ongoing outbreak in the United Kingdom may be substantially greater than official tallies indicate, according to an expert.
Officials from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have reported 528 confirmed cases across three distinct infection clusters, with two fatalities linked to the outbreak. The agency suspects the infections are connected to imported eggs.
However, Paul Wigley, a professor of animal microbial ecosystems at the University of Bristol, stated that the true infection rate could be as high as 1,500 to 2,000, or potentially even higher. "I wouldn't be surprised if it's up around the 2,000 mark," he told the Daily Mail. "In fact, I wouldn't be shocked if it's much higher than that."
Professor Wigley explained that many individuals may experience milder forms of salmonella without severe symptoms, leading them to not seek medical attention or undergo testing. This underreporting contributes to the discrepancy between confirmed cases and the actual number of infections.
While salmonella can be severe and potentially deadly, individuals with robust immune systems may recover within a week. Symptoms can range from stomach cramps to severe dehydration from prolonged diarrhea. Complications can include blood poisoning, organ failure, and death. Infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are most vulnerable to severe outcomes.
More than one-third of patients involved in the current outbreaks have required hospitalization. These comments echo earlier statements from Dr. Damien Tully of the Medical Research Council, who described the confirmed case numbers as likely being "just the tip of the iceberg."
Food safety authorities have advised the public to avoid raw or lightly cooked egg products, such as certain mousses, mayonnaises, and hollandaise sauces. Vulnerable groups are particularly cautioned against consuming runny eggs when dining out. Officials have stated there is no indication that eggs produced within the UK are a source of the infections.
Hannah Charles, lead epidemiologist at UKHSA, confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with current evidence pointing toward imported eggs. The agency continues to monitor cases and identify any further common sources. Despite the expert warnings, UKHSA maintains that the overall risk to the public remains low.