Foreign Office issues Turkey travel warning following rise in disease

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for people going to and from Turkey with a health warning.

According to the government body, the UKHSA has detected an increase in "gastrointestinal infections in travellers returning from Turkey". In total, more than 200 cases of salmonella were detected since the beginning of 2023.

Generally, salmonella infections are not dangerous and resolve with self-care at home. However, it can pose a more serious risk in young children, the elderly, and those with a compromised immune system from illness, underlying conditions, and medical treatments. Currently, the source of the illness has not been identified and investigations are ongoing, according to UKHSA.

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The government body has issued advice for people going on holiday to help them avoid salmonella and other gastrointestinal infections. It advises that while people travel abroad, they pay close attention to thoroughly washing their hands, especially after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food.

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It also advises ensuring that food is thoroughly cooked and served piping hot while opting to eat fruit that can be peeled and consuming pasteurised dairy products such as yoghurt and milk. People who feel unwell and suspect they have a gastrointestinal illness should avoid preparing food or drinks for others until they are free of symptoms.

The UKHSA is currently liaising with Turkish public health authorities and other international public health partners to inform investigations on rising cases of salmonella.