Person dies in E.coli outbreak

One person in England has died linked to the ongoing E.coli outbreak, the UK Health Security Agency has said. A number of food manufacturers have recalled certain sandwiches, wraps and salads sold in major supermarkets and retail chains over fears they are linked to an outbreak of E.coli.

The news comes after it was revealed that nearly half of all people in Wales who contracted E.coli in the outbreaking sweeping the UK linked to supermarket sandwiches have been so seriously ill they've needed hospital treatment.

The death was in England, but Public Health Wales said there have been 31 cases in Wales as part of the recent outbreak, up more than 50% from 18 at the last update.

Of the 31 cases of people who have been diagnosed with the dangerous bacterial infection, 42% of them have required hospital treatment. Across the UK, some 38% of cases have seen people hospitalised.

Health officials said it had identified two people in England who died within 28 days of infection with shiga toxin-producing E.coli (Stec). Earlier this week, health officials said 86 people had been admitted to hospital as a result of the outbreak linked to lettuce.

Stec is a bacterial infection, which can cause severe bloody diarrhoea. It is often transmitted via consumption of contaminated food but can also be spread by close contact with an infected person, as well as direct contact with an infected animal or its environment.

Wendi Shepherd, Consultant in Health Protection for Public Health Wales, said: “STEC is a nasty infection and can make people seriously unwell – it can be particularly difficult for young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.

"Public Health Wales is working with our partners across the UK and within Wales to identify the source of this incident. We have given clinical management guidance to healthcare providers across the country.

“I would advise anyone who has bloody diarrhoea or severe stomach cramps to seek medical attention. If you are affected you should take care to wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, and clean surfaces thoroughly to prevent transmission of the infection. You should also avoid seeing other people or preparing food for them if you experience diarrhoea and vomiting, especially people in hospital or care homes.

"Do not return to work, school, nursery or similar settings until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped.”

More information on managing diarrhoea and vomiting is available on the NHS 111 Wales website.