Food safety chiefs today recalled another sandwich from shelves over fears it could be contaminated with a rare strain of E. coli.
It means ‘do not eat’ alerts have now been placed on more than 60 products sold in the likes of Asda, Morrisons, Tesco and Sainsbury’s, although none of the products have yet been confirmed to contain Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC) — a strain that can cause severe, and even bloody diarrhoea.
More than 200 people, however, are now known to have been infected with the bacteria up from 113 in the previous week.
So what are the signs of an E. Coli infection? How long do symptoms last and what should you do if you’ve already bought one of the now-recalled items?
Here, I will try to answer the questions I’m being asked the most about the outbreak at the moment.
Food safety chiefs today recalled another sandwich from shelves over fears it could be contaminated with a rare strain of E. coli. Dr Ellie Cannon reveals everything you need to know about the outbreak
‘Do not eat’ alerts have now been placed on more than 60 products sold in the likes of Asda, Morrisons, Tesco and Sainsbury’s
What are the symptoms of an E.coli infection?
Symptoms of a STEC infection vary from mild to bloody diarrhoea, while vomiting, fever and stomach cramps are other tell-tale signs.
However, these symptoms can be caused by a variety of bugs, including norovirus.
In severe cases, the bug can cause haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to kidney failure.
Children under the age of five are at the highest risk of HUS.
A small proportion of adults may develop a similar condition called thrombotic thrombocytopaenic purpura (TTP).
This is a rare, life-threatening blood disorder where blood clots develop in small vessels throughout your body.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) typically records around 1,500 STEC confirmed infections in a year.
Which food products are affected?
More than 60 sandwiches, wraps and salads sold in 11 major shops have now been slapped with ‘do not eat’ alerts over fears they could contain STEC.
On June 14, two major sandwich manufacturers that supply UK supermarkets — Greencore and Samworth Brothers Manton Wood — recalled a range of their products.
Greencore produce 1.7million sandwiches daily making them the world’s largest manufacturer.
Aldi‘s Chicken Fajita Triple Wrap, Asda‘s Smoky Beans and Cheddar Cheese Wrap and Boots’ Vegan No Duck & Hoisin Wrap are among the products affected.
Others include Sainsbury’s Greek Style Wrap and Peri Peri Chicken Wrap and Amazon’s Prawn Layered Salad.
Earlier today, the ‘This Isn’t Chicken and Bacon wrap’ manufactured by vegan company THIS!, sold only in WH Smith, was also recalled.
What should I do if I’ve already eaten one of the recalled items?
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has urged anyone who has bought one of the 60-plus recalled products not to eat it.
The alert issued on Friday impacts all date codes on products up to and including June 14, 15 and 16.
The recall also affects all ‘This Isn’t Chicken and Bacon’ wraps with a use by date up to and including June 18.
You should instead return to the store you bought the product from and claim a full refund.
If you think you’ve consumed one, and you’re not unwell, then there’s not much else to do. However, if you are unwell, read on for my advice.
The UK Health Security Agency typically records around 1,500 STEC confirmed infections in a year. Anyone experiencing STEC symptoms is recommended to stay home from work or school until 48 hours after you’ve stopped vomiting of having diarrhoea in order to reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others
I think I’ve got E. Coli food poisoning – what do I do?
People usually notice symptoms three to four days after they have been infected.
But they can start any time up to 14 days after exposure.
Most people with the bug will get better without NHS care within a week, but the symptoms can last for a fortnight.
Anyone experiencing STEC symptoms is recommended to stay home from work or school until 48 hours after you’ve stopped vomiting of having diarrhoea in order to reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others.
People who serve unwrapped food, are a healthcare worker or attend pre-school or nursery are especially at risk of spreading the infection to others.
They should also be screened for STEC prior to returning to work or school according to Government guidance.
It’s important to call your GP if you think you might have it.
What will do the doctor do to help?
There is no specific treatment for a STEC.
But it is important to drink plenty of fluids as as symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea can lead to dehydration. To watch for this ensure you are passing water regularly.
Antibiotics are not recommended.
This is because of the potential of increasing the risk of suffering complications such as HUS, as the drugs impact on the bacteria can cause a build up of toxins.
Overall, diet can play a big part in reducing the effects of diarrhoea.
I suggest avoiding fatty, highly seasoned foods and dairy foods. Instead opt for light alternatives such as rice, toast, or bananas.
You should call NHS 111 or contact their GP surgery if you are concerned about a baby under six months, if a child stops drinking while they’re ill, or if child under five years of age shows signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet nappies.
You should also seek medical help if signs of dehydration persist after using oral rehydration sachets, if you or your child can not stop being sick or keep fluid down,
Anyone suffering bloody diarrhoea or bleeding from the bottom should call NHS 111 or your GP immediately.
STEC is primarily spread by eating contaminated foods, such as raw vegetables that have not been washed or stored correctly or from undercooked meat. It can also be spread by touching infected animals or their faeces, either directly or through contaminated water
Last June, an outbreak linked to minced beef products was responsible for 27 cases of STEC. In 2022, there was also an outbreak that caused more than 259 people to get ill between August and the end of October. Salad was suggested to be a possible cause at the time
Have there been STEC outbreaks like this in the UK before?
Last June, an outbreak linked to minced beef products was responsible for 27 cases of STEC.
In 2022, there was also an outbreak that caused more than 259 people to get ill between August and the end of October. Salad was suggested to be a possible cause at the time.
Studies suggest leafy greens are responsible for half of all E. Coli outbreaks.
It’s not uncommon for products to be recalled over fears of E. Coli outbreaks. Five cheese products were also recalled last December.
How can I prevent STEC?
STEC is primarily spread by eating contaminated foods, such as raw vegetables that have not been washed or stored correctly or from undercooked meat.
It can also be spread by touching infected animals or their faeces, either directly or through contaminated water.
People can also pass the bug on through direct content, such as caring for a child who is sick and then touching their face and mouth without properly washing their hands.
To avoid catching or potentially passing the infection on to others, you should wash your hands with soap and warm water and using disinfectants to clean surfaces.
Food hygiene measures such as washing fruit and vegetables and cooking food properly should always be followed.
You should also not prepare food for others while unwell and avoid visiting people in hospitals or care homes to avoid passing on the infection in these settings.
Source: Mail Online
