Further E. Coli Cases Reported

Further cases relating to the outbreak of E. coli linked to a Belfast restaurant have been confirmed by the Public Health Agency (PHA).

Flicks restaurant on York Street in the city has voluntarily closed, following an outbreak of the bacteria which occurred on October 9.

The restaurant management are currently assisting the PHA and Environmental Health Officers from Belfast City Council with an investigation into the outbreak.

The PHA today confirmed that as of 9pm on Monday 15 October, there are 20 confirmed cases and 118 probable cases.

Six people have been hospitalised since the start of the outbreak.

But Dr Michael Devine, who is the PHA Consultant in Health Protection, said: "The further increase in cases is not unexpected as the incubation period for E coli is typically up to seven days. We expect therefore to see a further increase in cases as people continue to report symptoms and submit samples for testing. This does not reflect a worsening situation.

He said: "It's vital that everyone follows some simple rules to prevent the spread of E. coli - not just those with symptoms, but everyone should wash their hands after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food. Raw and cooked food should be kept completely separate, raw meat should be cooked through and vegetables and fruit should be washed thoroughly before eating."

The PHA is advising anyone who ate at Flicks restaurant since 24 September and has symptoms of diarrhoea and or abdominal pain to contact their GP urgently.

E. coli is found in faeces and can survive in the environment, however the PHA are currently still investigating and no conclusions as to the source of the outbreak have yet been confirmed.

Symptoms caused by E. coli can also include tummy cramps, nausea and vomiting.

(IT)