E.coli outbreak linked to ‘main meals merchandise’ – however no one is aware of what it’s

Brits have been left confused be a mysterious E. coli outbreak linked to an unspecified ‘major food‘.

An urgent warning was issued on Thursday (June 6) about the outbreak, which is connected to a widely-distributed food item. However, the failure to specify the source of the food poisoning has left millions in a state of confusion and fear.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reports that there have already been 113 confirmed cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), with most victims being young adults.

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However, patients have ranged from as young as two to as old as 79.

It’s believed that most cases, which have occurred since May 25, are “part of a single outbreak” and likely from food available for purchase in the UK. Experts are still trying to identify the exact source, reports the Mirror.

The uncertainty surrounding the outbreak has led to bemusement and frustration among Brits, with one describing it as “like a reverse treasure hunt”.

Dr Phillip Lee sarcastically commented on X that the warning was “super helpful”. Meanwhile, TV historian Dr Fern Riddell criticised the handling of the situation, stating “this has got to be one of the worst handled outbreak’s [sic]”.

She added that there had been “no information” and “no identification of what food item it is”.

Brits have been slapped with a raft of tips from the UKHSA, including to wash hands with soap, give your fruit and veg a good rinse, and make sure you’re cooking your food properly. If you’re feeling ill with food poisoning symptoms like vomiting or diarrhoea, you’re strongly advised to steer clear of anyone vulnerable, dodge the office and school for 48 hours after your symptoms have ceased and don’t cook for others.

X was buzzing with reactions. One person said: “I mean there really is zero point in telling everyone there is an E. coli outbreak due to some ‘nationally distributed food’ is there. What are we all meant to do, stop eating? ” Erica Buist chimed in with: “This ‘health warning’ is so free of useful information, it’s basically just E.coli singing ‘I’ll fiiiiind you’ in a creepy voice.”

Another person quipped: “I see we are ready to contract E.Coli from one of our favourite food items. Yet the game is that you will not be told which food item. Good luck friends. What a time to be alive”.

Meanwhile, Darren Whitby, a chief at the Food Standards Agency (FSA) for Incidents and Resilience, said: “The FSA is working with UKHSA and relevant Public Health bodies to identify the source of the illness, which is likely to be linked to one or more food items.

“We always advise consumers and those looking after vulnerable people to ensure good hygiene practices are followed when handling and preparing food, regularly washing hands with soap and warm water, and ensuring equipment, utensils, and surfaces foods come into contact with are cleaned thoroughly to prevent cross-contamination. You should not prepare food for others if you have had symptoms, or for 48 hours after symptoms stop.”

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