A new study from the University of Surrey has linked changing weather conditions to an increase in Salmonella outbreaks. According to researchers, warmer temperatures, higher humidity, and longer daylight hours are making it easier for the bacteria to spread.
The study analyzed 16 years of data from the UK Health Security Agency and compared it with over a dozen weather factors from the Met Office. It found that temperatures above 50°F, high humidity, and extended daylight hours increase the risk of Salmonella infections.
Dr. Laura Gonzalez Villeta, lead author of the study, says the findings provide a valuable tool for predicting future risks and tailoring interventions in the context of climate change. The researchers also found that their model replicated across England, Wales, and the Netherlands.
As climate change drives more extreme weather, tracking these risk factors could help predict future outbreaks and improve public health responses.
Source: https://weather.com/health/news/2025-02-01-salmonella-europe-climate-change