Salmonella outbreak prompts investigation

Food safety chiefs in Ireland and the UK have launched an investigation into a salmonella outbreak after 68 cases of the illness were reported since February.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) said 60 people across England, Wales and the North had fallen victim to a new strain of Salmonella Agona.

Men were the most commonly affected accounting for 58% of the cases, while ages ranged from one to 79 years.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) confirmed eight people contracted the infection, which it is understood causes diarrhoea and vomiting, between the end of June and early July.

Both agencies are working to try and find the source of the outbreak.

The Food Standards Agency in the UK said it would provide information to the public as soon as it becomes available.

“We are aware of an outbreak of Salmonella Agona in the UK and Ireland and are working with the relevant agencies to investigate the source,” a spokesman said.

“Consumer safety is the key priority of the Agency, so when we have any information useful to consumers we will publish it immediately.”

The FSAI warned shops and cafes providing ready-to-eat sandwiches to keep strict hygiene standards.

It is understood its investigation is focusing on meat and poultry products and one company supplying catering ingredients has withdrawn its produce from the market as a precautionary measure.

An FSAI spokeswoman said: “The FSAI is advising food outlets providing ready-to-eat sandwiches to be particularly strict in adhering to best hygiene practices.

“It reminds retailers of the importance of ensuring that hot sandwiches must be thoroughly cooked before serving to the consumer.

“It also reiterates the need for strict procedures to be followed at all times to avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.”