Shiga Toxin producing E.coli (STEC) cases rise in England

Source: UK Health Security Agency, 30 July 2025

The latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) annual data shows a 26% rise in Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infections in England in 2024 when compared to 2023. Overall, 2,544 culture-confirmed cases of STEC were reported in England during 2024 – an increase of 26.1% compared to 2023 (2018 cases). These included 564 cases of STEC serotype O157 and 1,980 cases of other STEC serotypes (non-O157).

STEC are bacteria that can cause gastroenteritis, with symptoms ranging from mild to bloody diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting and dehydration. In severe cases, they can cause haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) – a serious, life-threatening condition that predominantly affects the kidneys. STEC bacteria are spread through contact with animals or their faeces, consuming contaminated food or water, and from person to person.

The highest incidence of STEC cases in 2024 was in children aged 1 to 4 years (84 cases of STEC O157 and 273 cases of STEC non-O157). The higher incidence of confirmed STEC cases in children aged 1 to 4 years may be explained by a combination of factors such as less time to build immunity to infection, less developed hygiene practices, a greater likelihood of parents seeking healthcare when young children are symptomatic, and potential exposure to risk factors such as contact with farm animals, particularly at petting farms.

Travel related cases increased by 60.5% from 114 in 2023 to 183 in 2024. This increase in travel-related STEC cases may reflect changes in international travel patterns or improved ascertainment of travel history during investigations, although the underlying reasons remain uncertain.

In 2024, 2.1% of STEC O157 cases and 1.7% of STEC non-O157 cases developed HUS. There were 7 deaths among STEC cases – 2 from STEC O157 and 5 from non-O157.