An outbreak of listeriosis linked to desserts served in NHS hospitals has resulted in the deaths of three individuals, with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) now conducting an investigation into the situation.

This outbreak, which involves the Listeria monocytogenes bacteria, has been confirmed to have caused the death of one person directly. The other two fatalities were known to have been infected with listeria at the time of their deaths, but listeriosis was not listed as the cause of death for these individuals. Reports indicate that patients affected by the outbreak were identified between May and December 2024, with locations spanning across Yorkshire and Humber, the north-west of England, the West Midlands, and Wales. The ages of those infected range between 68 and 89 years old, and all had underlying health conditions at the time of their hospitalisation.

The UKHSA has pinpointed a potential link to specific desserts not available from retail outlets but served in certain NHS Trusts. Dr Gauri Godbole, the Deputy Director for Gastrointestinal Infections at the UKHSA, stated, “We are investigating a small number of cases of listeria. The cause of the outbreak isn’t confirmed yet. However, our laboratory testing has identified a potential link to a particular type of dessert, which… is served in some NHS Trusts.” This dessert has been identified as both a chocolate and vanilla mousse and a strawberry and vanilla mousse, which were collected from NHS facilities on February 13 and February 27, respectively.

In light of these findings, the FSA has initiated a precautionary withdrawal of the affected products from supply chains serving hospitals and care homes across the UK. Tina Potter, Head of Incidents at the FSA, confirmed that they are working closely with local authorities and food suppliers to ensure proper actions are taken to protect public health. The desserts were supplied by Cool Delight Desserts, which has not yet provided further comment as the investigation is ongoing.

While many individuals who contract listeriosis may experience either no symptoms or mild gastrointestinal issues that resolve swiftly, vulnerable groups are especially at risk for severe illness, including sepsis and meningitis. Health guidelines highlight that individuals such as the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women face heightened risks from this infection.

Symptoms of listeriosis typically include a high temperature, chills, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. The NHS also warns pregnant women to be particularly cautious, noting that they may experience abdominal pain or reduced fetal movement if infected. Close contact with an infected person or with farm animals, especially during birthing, can also pose a risk, which is particularly concerning in hospital environments.

Health officials urge NHS trusts and care facilities to cease serving these desserts until further information is obtained. No specific NHS Trusts involved have been named publicly at this stage, and the investigations continue to unfold.

Source: Noah Wire Services