A Scots nursery has been temporarily closed following a suspected outbreak of E.coli.
Health chiefs took the decision to shut Cherrytrees nursery in Hawick, Scottish Borders, on Thursday, May 19, after a number of children fell ill.
Staff and toddlers have been asked to stay at home in a bid to minimise transmission of the illness.
NHS Borders is currently working with the nursery and other agencies on the probable outbreak.
Anybody that develops symptoms of the illness - including diarrhoea, stomach cramps and fever - is urged to contact a GP or NHS 24.
Cherrytrees will reopen as soon as is deemed safe to do so.
Director of Public Health, Dr Tim Patterson said: “I want to reassure people that the measures we are taking are preventative in order to limit the spread of this infection.
“Symptoms of E.coli include diarrhoea, stomach cramps and occasionally fever. About half of people with the infection will have bloody diarrhoea.
"If you or your child have attended Cherrytrees nursery since the May 9 and develop any of these symptoms then call your GP - or NHS 24 on 111 if your GP surgery is closed - and let them know.
"They may arrange for your child to come to the BGH to have their stool and bloods checked. If your child is well you will be able to go home to wait for the results.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the management and staff of Cherrytrees in Hawick for their cooperation in this process.”
Further information about E.coli can be found on the NHS website here.
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