In January 2025, the French health authorities identified 11 cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in adults, caused by Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) bacteria. Nine of these cases were confirmed by the National Reference Center for Escherichia coli (Institut Pasteur Paris and Robert Debré Hospital). A subsequent investigation by Santé Publique France, in collaboration with the National Reference Centre for Escherichia coli and the competent health authorities, identified epidemiological elements linking the occurrence of HUS to the consumption of unpasteurised milk cheeses from a well-known French dairy industry. The results of ongoing microbiological investigations on the implicated dairy products are awaited, and the producer, in collaboration with the health authorities, has withdrawn and recalled some contaminated cheese batches.
France: 11 cases of E. coli contamination
Type of event:
FBD - Food-borne Disease, Food Alert
11
January 27, 2025