44 confirmed cases in E. coli outbreak

Published Friday, 19 October 2012
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A further 15 cases of E. coli have been confirmed following an outbreak linked to a north Belfast restaurant, taking the total number to 44.

44 confirmed cases in E. coli outbreak
Flicks in Cityside Mall is being investigated after an E coli outbreak. (© UTV)

Another 144 probable cases have been flagged, the Public Health Agency said.

Flicks restaurant in the Cityside Mall, which has already closed voluntarily, is continuing to cooperate with an investigation into one of the biggest food poisoning incidents in the UK.

The October outbreak has been caused by a separate strain to cases investigated back in August.

Dr Carolyn Harper said: "The PHA has activated a full public health response to this outbreak and the situation is being managed and monitored very closely.

"It is 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 illness has been caused by the Type 54 strain of E. coli.

Four cases of the Type 8 strain E. coli were linked to the York Street premises in August, however tests at the time proved negative.

There were also no cases of E. coli associated with Flicks in the six-week period between the two outbreaks.

The latest investigations by the Public Health Agency and Environmental Health officers began when the first possible case of food poisoning was reported on 9 October.

Anyone who has eaten at Flicks since 24 September and has diarrhoea or abdominal pain should contact their GP urgently for medical advice.

© UTV News
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