Warning to parents over deadly E.coli outbreak ‘mainly affecting children’

Children seem particularly vulnerable says report

There were 24 reported cases of the Shiga-toxin producing E.coli 0183 in just 10 days, which tragically killed one person and necessitated hospital treatment for six others, according to a recent report on the Mirror website.

Of particular concern is the fact that youngsters seemed to be the most badly affected in these recent outbreaks, according to Amy Douglas, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) incident director, who is quoted in the article as saying

“The UKHSA has identified an outbreak of a rare form of STEC, with most cases seen in children.”

Despite ages ranging from one to seventy four, it was confirmed that those affected were mostly aged nine and under, wrote Tim Hanlon.

The best way to prevent the spread of E.coli – hand washing

Amy Douglas advised of the importance of effective hand hygiene.

“Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water and ensuring to help young children with handwashing is the best way to stop the bug spreading.”

At the time of writing, the source remained unidentified.

This outbreak came a short time after a popular farm park near Epsom in Surrey was closed after an earlier E.coli outbreak.

Tests were carried out by the authorities at the farm where children are usually able to visit a wide collection of animals including meerkats and llamas. The five day closure came after three cases were reported.

Referring to this incident, Wales Online quoted a regional deputy director for UKHSA South East, Trish Mannes, who also emphasised the importance of hand washing.

“Whilst STEC is very infectious, the most effective way to prevent the spread of the illness is by following good hygiene such as washing hands thoroughly, particularly after using the toilet, handling raw meat, before meals and after contact with animals.”