Search for E.coli outbreak source

Complications from e.coli poisoning can be serious

An investigation has been launched after 23 cases of E.coli food poisoning were identified in the south Wales valleys, mostly among children.

It is believed the cases in 12 schools in the Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil council areas are linked.

Initially there were seven reported cases, but that has now increased. The source of the outbreak is being hunted.

A helpline has been set up with five lines, on 029 2040 2520, open from 0900 to 2100 BST until Friday.

The National Public Health Service for Wales is interviewing those affected to find out the source.

The service said the E.coli 0157 cases had been identified in the past few days. A new case was confirmed on Monday afternoon.

SCHOOLS AFFECTED Primary: Abertaf; Blaengwawr; Bedlinog; Pengeulan; Cwmdare; Troedyrhiw; Rhigos; Glenboi Infant: Cwmbach; Penygraig Secondary: Pen y Dre; St John the Baptist;

Consultant epidemiologist Dr Roland Salmon said: "We know we have got 22 cases to date and they are from a very narrow time window from the weekend after the schools went back to this weekend just gone.

"They are also in a relatively narrow geographical area.

"Most years we only see about 30 cases in the whole year, so to get this many in any one time we have to presume some sort of link between them."

The condition is described as a serious form of food poisoning.

Hugh Pennington, president of the Society of General Microbiology said: "The initial signs are very severe stomach pains, diarrhoea, sometimes with blood in the stools.

"The complications arise later when the kidneys go on the blink.

"It's not that common and most kids will come through, but sometimes they will need special treatment."

The schools affected first noticed signs of children becoming unwell at the end of last week.

Tony Soanes, head of Bedlinog Primary School said: "At first it was just diarrhoea then one or two children went home and it just progressed from there.

"Today is a process of reassuring parents and pupils and working closely with environmental health and moving forward from here.

"The advice I've been given is that children should still come to school and further advice will be given to parents in a letter today.

"If parents are still concerned, they should contact the helpline."

Officers from the environmental health departments of the council areas affected and the National Public Health Service for Wales are working to establish the source.

Dr Salmon said a number of possible sources were being investigated: "The scope of the inquiry will widen as the week goes on, into some of the premises and suppliers that may be relevant."

Sources of E.coli include handling raw meat, eating undercooked meat, consuming untreated milk or dairy products, direct contact with animals, or close contact with another infected person.