Over 200 cases of E.coli infections have been reported in the UK, according to the UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA). At least 67 people have been hospitalized and authorities warn that the number of cases is expected to rise.
Infections have mainly affected young people, but cases have also been reported in children up to two years old and elderly people up to 79 years old. UKHSA believes the outbreak is linked to food items distributed nationally. So far, 147 cases have been reported in England, 27 in Wales, 35 in Scotland and two in Northern Ireland.
E.coli is bacteria that can cause serious foodborne illness.
The main symptoms of E.coli infection include stomach cramps, severe diarrhea that may contain blood, and in some cases, hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can lead to kidney failure.
The UKHSA did not provide further details about the "food item" thought to be responsible.
To reduce the risk of infection, the UKHSA recommends regular hand washing with warm water and soap, avoiding visits to hospital or care homes and people who are unwell not going to work, school or daycare for up to 48 hours after symptoms have subsided are discontinued.