Danish health officials are investigating a Salmonella outbreak that has made 14 people ill. This outbreak is linked to Salmonella Enteritidis, and since mid-November 2025, cases have been reported across different age groups, from two to 84 years old. The average age of those infected is 69.
Officials from the Statens Serum Institut (SSI), along with the Danish Veterinary, Food, Agriculture, and Fisheries Agency, are working together to find the source of the infections. In January, these agencies merged to strengthen their response to food safety issues.
So far, the sick individuals are spread out: seven from Hovedstaden, four from Midtjylland, and three from Syddanmark. To identify how people got sick, SSI is analyzing genetic samples from the bacteria found in patients. This genetic testing shows the bacteria are closely related, suggesting they likely came from a single source.
Looking back, Denmark reported 10 Salmonella outbreaks last year, with a total of 1,266 infections, a rise from 1,207 in 2023. Salmonella Enteritidis was the most common type, affecting 274 people, and 66% of those cases were linked to travel abroad.
Salmonella can contaminate food without any signs of spoilage. It’s concerning because anyone can get infected, but the young, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are at a greater risk. Symptoms often include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever, typically appearing within 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food. Most healthy adults recover within a week, but some may experience severe symptoms requiring hospitalization.
It’s important for anyone showing symptoms to seek medical advice. If doctors know about potential exposure to Salmonella, they can run specific tests to confirm the infection. Interestingly, some people may carry the bacteria without feeling sick, which means they could unknowingly spread it to others.
For more information on Salmonella, you can refer to the CDC, which provides detailed insights on prevention and treatment.
