Health and safety experts are linking imported eggs with an outbreak of salmonella food poisoning in the UK which has caused one death and caused hundreds to fall ill.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has launched an investigation into the 207 cases that have occured in the last year, with the majority having been recorded in recent weeks.

Whilst most have recovered without requiring treatment, over one third of those affected have required hospital care, including babies and others as old as 90.

Just under 200 of the total cases have been in England, including 47 in London and 38 in Yorkshire and Humber.

UKSHA response

Hannah Charles, lead epidemiologist for gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA, said: "We're working with Food Standards Agency and other public health agencies to investigate a salmonella outbreak that may be linked to eggs imported from outside of the UK."

The UKHSA are carrying out "extensive" epidemiological and food chain investigations in an attempt to identify the source of the outbreak. Early findings suggest that egg consumption is the most likely source, with some of the food businesses linked to 24 of the cases using imported eggs.

"At this time there is no identified link to UK-produced eggs or poultry," they added.

Whilst the risk to the general public remains low, extra precautions or preventative measures will be implemented if needed.

What are the symptoms?

Salmonella can be found in a number of sources including raw or under-cooked poultry or meat and eggs. Thousands of cases happen each year in the UK, caused by numerous strains.

Symptoms can include stomach cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting or fever and usually develop between 12 and 72 hours after infection. The UKHSA say anyone who is concerned should contact their GP or an out of hours service in the first instance.