Fears of E coli outbreak as two people hospitalised

A NUMBER of cases of E coli in Orkney are being investigated by health experts.

Two cases are being treated in hospital, with another three under investigation. The cases have occurred in two areas and NHS Orkney yesterday said there was no indication that there was a link between them.

The director of public health, Dr Louise Wilson, said: “The cases have occurred in two different areas of Orkney and there is no current indication that there is a link between the cases in these two areas. When we start an investigation it is not uncommon to find other people with symptoms or who are positive on testing.

“We are working closely with the environmental health team from Orkney Islands Council to try and identify a source for the infections and the investigation is ongoing. E coli O157 infections are often associated with environmental exposure, but can also be food-related.

“One of the simplest things that can be done to prevent infection with E coli O157 is to wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet or changing nappies, and before preparing or eating food. It is also important to wash your hands after contact with animals or their environment.”

A statement from the board added: “NHS Orkney and Orkney Islands Council are currently investigating a small cluster of apparently unlinked cases of E coli O157 infection.

“Currently there are five cases being investigated, of which there are two confirmed cases of E coli O157 – these two cases are receiving treatment in hospital.”

E coli O157 is a bacterium that lives in the gut of animals, including cattle, sheep, deer and goats. It can also be carried by pets and wild birds. In humans the toxins that E coli O157 produces can cause illness including diarrhoea and kidney failure.