'Extremely hygiene conscious' woman dies from E. coli-related stroke as inquest reveals investigation failures

Laura Farmer, who was known for her meticulous approach to food preparation, was admitted to University College Hospital (UCLH) with severe diarrhoea on April 20. She was diagnosed with haemolytic uraemic syndrome, a life-threatening kidney condition triggered by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli.

Despite initially showing signs of recovery, Ms Farmer unexpectedly suffered a stroke and died shortly after. Her family struggled to understand how she had contracted E. coli, especially given their cautious lifestyle. St Pancras Coroner's Court Senior Coroner Mary Hassell expressed concerns during the inquest, saying that the source of the infection remained unidentified.

The coroner said in her Prevention of Future Death report: "She was a vegan who took great pains with food preparation. As a family, they were extremely hygiene conscious, particularly as (REDACTED) has a nut allergy."

Ms Farmer had not been able to give a detailed account of where she may have contracted the infection. Concerns were also raised about whether health authorities had conducted a thorough enough investigation.

The inquest revealed that the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) had not fully explored possible sources of the infection, such as animal contact, water sports, or details about her recent dining experiences.

The coroner added: “There was apparently no exploration of potential contact with animals or water sports and I was told that only scant details of a recent restaurant visit were obtained. The coroner further criticised the UKHSA for not asking Mr Farmer for more information that could have helped trace the source of the infection.

"If asked, Mr Farmer would have explained that on 6 April 2024, not only did he and his wife visit a local restaurant, they also had drinks at a nearby club, and they had recently eaten and drunk at local military establishments," the report said. "None of that information appears to have been considered by the UKHSA."

The inquest also highlighted a lack of communication and guidance to Ms Farmer’s family on how to protect themselves from E. coli. Mr. Farmer, her husband, had cleaned the bathroom in anticipation of her return home from the hospital but had not been advised to use personal protective equipment. Later, when he fell ill himself, he feared he had put himself and their child at risk.

“Having heard his description in court, I think it is not an exaggeration to say that he was then terrified that his own actions might leave his child an orphan,” the coroner added.

Mr Farmer had seen reports of an E. coli outbreak in Waverley, Surrey, and the strain of E. coli that infected his wife had been identified by clinicians. However, the inquest revealed that no information had been shared with the family regarding whether this strain was linked to the outbreak in Surrey or another source.

The coroner’s report concluded that there appeared to be no "closing of the loop of safety information after a death from E. coli," and criticised the communication failures from the health authorities. “(Mr Farmer) struck me as a person of significant drive, and yet he found it incredibly difficult to find the correct person to speak to and then incredibly difficult to gain any meaningful understanding of what had happened. This cannot inspire public confidence and seems a very offhand way to treat a grieving relative,” the coroner stated.

Trish Mannes, Deputy Director for the UKHSA South East region, responded to the coroner’s findings, saying: “We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Laura Farmer. We are carefully considering the Coroner’s conclusions and will respond in due course.”

Husband’s tribute to ‘powerhouse of a woman’

Following her death, Steve, who his wife called ‘Jim’, paid a heartfelt tribute to his wife of 14 years, describing her as a “powerhouse of a woman.” He also recalls his wife’s unwavering support, saying she often reminded him, "You’ve got this, Jim".

Despite losing her too soon, Steve said he and their son, Harry are finding strength in the love they've received. Steve also encouraged others to cherish the small moments in honour of Laura, saying: "Go watch the ducklings, write your affirmations, make healthy choices, break them!"