Health bosses have issued a warning as salmonella cases soar to their highest levels in a decade. Salmonella and campylobacter infections cause symptoms like diarrhoea and vomiting – and in those with weakened immune systems, the bacteria can cause other serious complications and severe illness. The infections are typically caught by eating contaminated food , including poultry, meat, eggs, raw fruit and vegetables, as well as unpasteurised milk products, the UKHSA said. They can be spread through close contact with infected people and by cross-contamination in the kitchen. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said salmonella infections increased by 17.1 per cent from 2023, from 8,872 cases in that year to 10,388 cases in 2024. Children under 10 were particularly affected, accounting for 21.5 per cent of cases. Similarly, campylobacter cases also increased by 17.1 per cent, from 60,055 in 2023 to 70,352 in 2024 – reaching nearly 120 reports per 100,000 people. The UKHSA has urged Brits to take action against catching these bacteria, which are common causes of food poisoning. It warned that young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are most of risk of serious disease. All gastrointestinal infections can cause similar symptoms, according to the UKHSA. These include: Most people recover from the infections within one to two weeks. However, vulnerable groups face higher risks of developing serious illness or complications, including dehydration or bloodstream infections. Dr Gauri Godbole, Deputy Director, Gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA said: “These infections spread in many ways, including through contaminated food or water, contact with an infected person as well as contact with an infected animal or their environment. “Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, particularly after using the toilet or handling raw meat, before meals and after contact with animals or farms can prevent infections. “Additionally, anyone experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting should avoid handling or preparing food for others. Do not return to work, and children should not attend school or nursery, until at least 48 hours after symptoms have subsided.” Health officials at the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has also urged Brits to follow “the 4Cs of food hygiene” to reduce the risk of food poisoning when cooking at home. Dr James Cooper, deputy director of food policy at the FSA, said: “We are working together to understand the reasons behind the rise in campylobacter and salmonella cases, as well as trends in other pathogens. “This analysis will help us take the necessary action to protect public health.” The “4Cs” include: The FSA also reminds Brits to use food and drink by the ‘use by’ date on the label, even if it looks and smells fine, and to maintain good personal hygiene when preparing food.