European health authorities are on heightened alert following the identification of a multi-country salmonella outbreak that has been recorded in at least six European Union and European Economic Area member states as well as the United Kingdom. According to the latest data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, approximately 50 confirmed cases have been logged between January and April 2026, with national authorities, European agencies and reference laboratories working jointly to trace the common source of contamination. The outbreak involves the strain Salmonella Bovismorbificans, with most cases occurring in adults, predominantly women. Some patients have required hospitalisation. Epidemiological data indicate that a significant number of cases share close genetic similarity, strengthening the likelihood of a common transmission source through food.
Initial findings from the investigation point toward plant-based foods, and specifically sprouted seeds and microgreens. In several countries, patients reported consuming such products before the onset of symptoms, a detail that food safety authorities are now examining closely. Experts note that foodborne outbreaks linked to sprouted seeds present particular challenges due to the speed with which the products are consumed and the complexity of their distribution chains. Health authorities are urging consumers to follow basic hygiene rules when handling and consuming raw plant-based products, particularly those that are not subject to heat treatment before eating.
Respiratory viruses in retreat
In contrast to the heightened activity around the salmonella outbreak, the latest epidemiological data point to a decline in the circulation of major respiratory viruses across Europe. According to the ECDC, the spread of seasonal influenza, RSV and SARS-CoV-2 has decreased significantly, with surveillance indicators now at low levels in most countries. The improvement is attributed to the gradual end of the winter transmission season, though authorities stress that continued monitoring remains necessary.
On avian influenza, the ECDC notes that the overall risk to the general population of the European Union from the H5N1 strain remains low. Transmission to humans continues to be associated primarily with direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments, with no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission.