COVID-19, H5N1, Bundibugyo Ebola, Measles, Vaccination and Other Virus and Health UK and World News Update 28th August 2026
COVID levels are on the rise in the UK, and elsewhere in the Northern hemisphere, however they remain low. They've been low for quite some time, so it's not a surprise we are seeing a rise now, although it would have been even nicer if it had at least waited until the schools were all back and we could have had something to blame it on.
The US has massive Salmonella outbreaks linked to 14.4 million eggs from Texas and fresh Jalapeño peppers from Mexico. Around 100 people have been hospitalised through both outbreaks.
Belgium is dealing with it's largest ever salmonella outbreak. Around 2 million eggs have been recalled and 306 people were sick enough to have been tested and confirmed infected.
If you think you are safe from salmonella in the UK, you usually are - as long as you use Lion Marked eggs from vaccinated UK hens, or cook your eggs thoroughly. The UKHSA has issued a report stating that on 26th May they noticed an increase in Salmonella, and cases had the same lineage (they're genetically related). As of the latest update on 25th August that outbreak numbered 259 confirmed cases and sadly 1 person has died. There are also 2 smaller outbreaks of 38 cases, and 177 cases.
Cases have risen quite dramatically since June, and imported eggs or egg dishes are suspected to be the cause. Around 38% of confirmed cases have been admitted to hospital and at least 2 people developed blood stream infections.
For most people Salmonella is a couple of days with a bad tummy and they won't even see a doctor. It's not pleasant, but usually resolves without treatment. If you cannot keep water down, are ill for more than 3 days or are especially vulnerable (frail or already ill, very young or old etc), always get advice from your GP.
