06/09/2010

Source Of Nursery E-coli Outbreak 'Unclear'

The source of an outbreak of the E-coli bug at a Lurgan nursery is still unknown.

The Public Health Agency is continuing to investigate the outbreak at Holly House in Dollingstown, which has so far affected twelve toddlers.

The PHA confirmed that none of the children has been seriously ill.

The nursery has been closed since last Wednesday and an industrial cleaning operation is underway at the premises.

However, it is understood that no evidence has been uncovered so far to suggest the nursery is the source of the infection and tests conducted on food are believed to have been clear.

Dr Neil Irvine, Consultant in Health Protection at the Public Health Agency, said: "The nursery remains closed and all appropriate infection control measures are being taken and the nursery is co-operating fully with the PHA."

The PHA said that parents of children who attend the nursery have been contacted and advised to contact their GP if their child develops a diarrhoeal illness.

(KMcA/GK)

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