Media Release
E-coli update
15.00 hours 28th September 2005
Update by the Outbreak Control Team (Officers of the Rhondda Cynon Taf, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly and Bridgend Local Authorities, the Rhondda Cynon Taf Local Health Board, the Food Standards Agency and the National Public Health Service of Wales)
New cases:
At 10.00 hours today, 144 cases compatible with E coli O157 infection have been identified.
It is clear that the numbers are in decline. (A graph is available on request showing when cases first developed symptoms. This shows that the majority fell ill before control measures were in place).
There are 5 new schools to report where exposure to the source has apparently resulted in infection. These schools are:
- Ysgol Yr Eos, Penygraig, Rhondda Cynon Taf
- YGG Abercynon, Rhondda Cynon Taf
- Rhydri Primary School, Caerphilly
- Hendre Infants School, Caerphilly
- Ynysawdre Comprehensive School, Bridgend
There are a total of 37 schools where exposure to the source has apparently resulted in infection.
Investigation:
The investigations continue well both in the laboratories and with the gathering of statistical evidence.
Control measures:
The Outbreak ControlTeam is confident that potentially affected cooked meat has been removed from use.
Communications:
The Help Line number is 02920 402520. It is open 9am -5pm.
The Outbreak Control Team consists of the following organisations:
- Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
- National Public Health Service for Wales
- Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council
- Rhondda Cynon Taf Local Health Board
- Bridgend County Borough Council
- Food Standards Agency
- Caerphilly County Borough Council
ENDS
For further information, please contact Chris Lines at the National Public Health Service of Wales on 07866 634077 or Steph McNicholas at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council on 01443 494702
For a copy of the graph, please contact Chris Lines.