Health authorities have issued a critical 48-hour alert to Britons following a surge in cases of a potentially fatal illness that has already claimed seven lives across England. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned the public to remain vigilant for symptoms of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC).

This particular E.coli variant can trigger bloody diarrhoea, severe abdominal pain, and high temperature. In severe instances, the infection can progress to life-threatening complications including blood poisoning and haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS). The bacteria spreads via tainted food products or direct contact with those carrying the infection, reports the Mirror.

Consequently, health officials have advised against food preparation for others for a minimum of 48 hours following the cessation of symptoms. The warning follows a dramatic 26 per cent spike in STEC infections across England within a single year. Taking to X, the health agency stated: “We’ve seen an increase in cases of STEC, a foodborne illness that can cause diarrhoea, bloody stools and stomach cramps.

“Children aged one to four years were most affected and we’re reminding parents to make sure young children wash their hands with soap and warm water before eating. Our latest data shows that Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) cases have increased by 26 per cent in 2024, compared to 2023.” The latest data reveals that 2,544 laboratory-confirmed STEC infections were recorded across England throughout 2024.

Youngsters bore the brunt of these cases, with the UKHSA attributing this pattern to several key factors including compromised immune systems, underdeveloped personal hygiene habits, parents being more inclined to seek medical attention for poorly children, and increased exposure to risk elements such as direct contact with livestock, especially at children’s farms. In the previous year, approximately two per cent of STEC patients developed haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS).

This serious complication damages and inflames tiny blood vessels and can result in renal failure. According to UKHSA data, seven fatalities were attributed to STEC during 2024. Dr Gauri Godbole, deputy director of gastrointestinal infections, food safety and one health at the UKHSA, remarked: “STEC cases rose by around a quarter in 2024. While this rise is partly due to one foodborne outbreak, we have been seeing STEC cases gradually increase since 2022 and therefore it’s important for people to take steps to prevent infection.

“If you have any STEC symptoms, like mild to bloody diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting and dehydration, wash your hands with soap and warm water and use bleach-based products to clean surfaces. Don’t prepare food for others if you have symptoms or for 48 hours after symptoms stop.

“It is important for parents to make sure that young children wash their hands with soap and hot water and dry them thoroughly before eating where possible, especially after playing outdoors and visiting pet farms. If you are travelling abroad, it’s important to remember routine hygiene practices to reduce your chances of becoming unwell.

“Rarely STEC can progress to cause kidney failure and life-threatening illness, particularly in young children and elderly.”

She advised individuals to seek medical attention from their GP or healthcare professional if experiencing blood in stools or severe dehydration, whilst emphasising the importance of maintaining proper hydration. Throughout 2024, the UKHSA examined five STEC outbreaks encompassing 467 cases, with 348 occurring in England.

The origins of three outbreaks were traced to tainted beef, fresh fruit, and salad leaves. The most significant outbreak was connected to contaminated salad leaves, resulting in 293 cases, including 196 cases in England. Of the 293 affected individuals, 126 required hospitalisation, 11 developed HUS complications, and two tragically lost their lives.

For additional guidance, including protective measures against STEC, visit the Government website here.