Scottish case among rare UK infection outbreak leaving five in hospital and 20 ill
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Twenty people, including 13 children, have been struck down by an unusual strain of salmonella that previously affected 90 individuals in 2023 after they consumed cantaloupe, with five now hospitalised due to the outbreak. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has connected the cases to salmonella saintpaul but has not found a link to melons in this instance.
The agency reported that individuals began reporting illnesses starting from February 20 across various regions including the North West, West Midlands, South West, and East of England, with singular cases in the East Midlands, North East, London, South East as well as two each in Northern Ireland and Wales, plus one in Scotland. Occurrences were noted in both February and March, and investigations are ongoing.
Affected individuals range from one year old to 88 years of age. Gauri Godbole, deputy director of gastrointestinal infections at the UKHSA, remarked: "UKHSA is investigating a small outbreak of Salmonella and no cases have been identified since March 2025."
Godbole advised that "Gastrointestinal bacteria, such as Salmonella, can be spread from person to person as well as from food, so anyone with diarrhea or vomiting should wash their hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and avoid handling food or preparing food for others where possible."
She further cautioned: "Please avoid returning to work or sending unwell children to school or nursery until at least 48 hours after symptoms have cleared.", reports the Mirror.
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can lead to food poisoning. It's typically found in raw or undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, unpasteurised milk, and occasionally in fruits and vegetables that have been contaminated.
An infection with salmonella is referred to as salmonellosis.
Signs of Salmonella Infection.
Symptoms usually appear 6 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food or water and may include:.
Diarrhoea (which could be bloody).
Stomach cramps.
Fever.
Nausea and vomiting.
Headache.
Muscle aches.
Feeling generally unwell (malaise).
Duration.
Symptoms generally last between 4 to 7 days. While most people recover without treatment, severe cases may necessitate medical attention, especially for the very young, elderly, or those with compromised immune systems.
Prevention Tips.
Ensure meat, particularly poultry, is cooked thoroughly.
Avoid raw or undercooked eggs.
Wash hands, surfaces, and utensils after handling raw meat.
Keep raw and cooked foods separate.
Only drink pasteurised milk and juices.
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