Warning Issued After E. coli Outbreak in United Kingdom Linked to Mrs Kirkham’s Cheese.
The UK public has been alerted not to consume any products from Mrs Kirkham’s Cheese following an E. coli outbreak that has claimed one life in Scotland.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported 30 confirmed cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) since late July 2023, with affected individuals ranging in age from 7 to 81. Some cases required hospitalization.
Symptoms and Severity of STEC Infection
Symptoms of STEC infection include mild diarrhoea, severe abdominal cramps, vomiting, and bloody diarrhoea.
In up to 15% of cases, the infection can lead to haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), a serious and life-threatening condition affecting the kidneys.
Specific Cheese Products Warning
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and UKHSA have issued a warning against consuming the following Mrs Kirkham’s Cheese products:
- Mrs Kirkham’s Mild & Creamy Lancashire
- Mrs Kirkham’s Tasty Lancashire
- Mrs Kirkham’s Mature Lancashire
- Mrs Kirkham’s Smoked Lancashire
- No 1 Waitrose and Partners, Farmhouse Kirkham’s Lancashire cheese
Precautions for Public Safety
STEC infection can spread through various routes, not limited to contaminated food. The public is advised to take precautions, including handwashing with soap and warm water, using bleach-based products to clean surfaces, and avoiding food preparation for others during illness.
Precautions for Individuals with Symptoms
Individuals with diarrhoea and vomiting should refrain from preparing food for others and follow hygiene measures to prevent the spread of infection. Hospital and care home visits, as well as returning to work or school, should be avoided until 48 hours after symptoms have ceased.
Recall and Cooperation from Mrs Kirkham’s Cheese
Mrs Kirkham’s Cheese has withdrawn its products from the market and urged consumers to adhere to official advice.
The company emphasized consumer safety as a top priority and assured close collaboration with relevant authorities. While local authorities found no concerns in Kirkham’s manufacturing process, the company initiated a precautionary recall.
Popular Festive Product Recall
Mrs Kirkham’s products, popular during the festive season, have been sold as part of Christmas gift hampers. Consumers are urged to check for these products in their possession and to refrain from consuming or gifting them.
The situation is evolving, and further updates will be provided to businesses supplied with Mrs Kirkham’s products as new information becomes available. The public is encouraged to stay informed and follow official guidance regarding the affected cheese products.