Health chiefs have urgently warned Britons to adopt safety measures after cases of a dangerous food poisoning bug have reached the highest level in a decade.
This is salmonella—which cases of, alongside the other potentially fatal bug campylobacter—have soared by 17.1 per cent between 2023 and 2024—according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
These infections are usually caught by eating contaminated food such as poultry, meat, eggs, raw fruit and vegetables, as well as unpasteurised milk or cheese.
People can die from them via dehydration or if the bacteria enters the bloodstream, which can lead to sepsis — a life-threatening reaction.
In response to the surge in cases, the health officials have reminded businesses and households of important food safety measures.
These follow the 4Cs of food hygiene: chilling, cleaning, cooking, and avoiding cross-contamination.
Salmonella is often caught by eating raw or undercooked meat—so when cooking you should follow the time and temperature instructions on product labels.
It is also important to chill food below 5C as this helps stop harmful bacteria from growing.
People should also clean food equipment and surfaces thoroughly and avoid cross-contamination.
This includes things like re-usable shopping bags, knives and chopping boards, cloths and work surfaces.
You should also eat food by the ‘use by’ date on the label even if it looks and smells fine, and wash their hands before and after preparing food.
Those most at risk are those with weakened immune systems such as children and the elderly.
The UKHSA and Food Standards Agency (FSA) are looking into potential reasons for the rise in cases.
Dr James Cooper, deputy director of food policy at the FSA, said: ‘We are working together to understand the reasons behind the rise in campylobacter and salmonella cases, as well as trends in other pathogens.
‘This analysis will help us take the necessary action to protect public health.
‘We’ve launched a new campaign to help people stay safe.
‘We’re also working with industry and local authorities to support businesses to meet their legal responsibility to make sure food is safe.’
