A recent outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (Stec) in the UK has resulted in the death of one individual, according to health officials. Since July, there have been 30 confirmed cases of Stec across England and Scotland, affecting people ranging from seven to 81 years old. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is leading the investigation into this outbreak and is collaborating with various agencies, including the Food Standards Agency (FSA), Public Health Scotland (PHS), and Food Standards Scotland. The aim is to identify any commonalities between the cases and potential links to the recalled cheeses.
As a precautionary measure, the FSA issued a recall of several products from cheesemaker Mrs Kirkham’s Lancashire Cheese, due to possible E. coli contamination. The recall initially included four different products, with a fifth product being added later. The cheeses in question are Mrs Kirkham’s Mild and Creamy Lancashire, Mrs Kirkham’s Tasty Lancashire, Mrs Kirkham’s Mature Lancashire, Mrs Kirkham’s Smoked Lancashire, and Waitrose and Partners Farmhouse Kirkham’s Lancashire cheese. The investigation is currently looking into whether these products are linked to the outbreak.
Mrs Kirkham’s Lancashire Cheese has responded responsibly to the situation. In a statement on their website, they announced the recall of all their products purchased between 1 October and Christmas Eve. The company has also suspended all orders until investigations are complete. They expressed their commitment to working closely with local environmental health officers and the FSA to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation and the potential implications of their products. Despite the lack of confirmed risk by the FSA’s testing, the company has decided to recall their products as a precautionary measure, emphasizing their dedication to customer safety.
Mrs Kirkham’s explained that the recall was prompted by new testing techniques that are not currently the industry standard. While the company prides itself on rigorous and thorough testing throughout its production processes, these new techniques revealed a potential risk to product safety that had previously gone undetected. The company finds itself in a state of uncertainty until testing laboratories reopen and resume their operations.
Individuals who have consumed the recalled Mrs Kirkham’s cheeses and are experiencing symptoms such as severe diarrhoea (which could be bloody) and abdominal pain should seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms could be indications of an infection by Stec organisms. In severe cases, this infection can lead to haemolytic uremic syndrome, which is a serious condition that can result in kidney failure and, in some instances, be fatal.
Considering the popularity of the recalled product, especially during the festive period, it is crucial for consumers to check whether they have purchased or received any of the affected cheeses. The FSA urges individuals to take this matter seriously and take necessary steps if they have been in possession of the recalled products.
The joint efforts of the UKHSA, FSA, PHS, and Food Standards Scotland continue as they strive to uncover any additional details about this E.coli outbreak. As investigations progress, it is expected that further updates will be made, including new information on the potential links between the confirmed cases and the unpasteurized cheeses produced by the English cheesemaker. The establishment of these connections will aid in preventing further infections and ensuring the safety of the public.
The E.coli outbreak in the UK has resulted in a tragic death and numerous confirmed cases. The recall of Mrs Kirkham’s Lancashire Cheese products highlights the proactive response of the company and its commitment to prioritizing customer safety. The investigation into the outbreak is ongoing, with various agencies working together to identify potential links and prevent further infections. It is crucial for consumers to remain vigilant and take prompt action if they have purchased or received any of the recalled products. The collaboration between health officials and cheesemakers is vital in safeguarding public health and preventing future outbreaks.
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