A second childcare setting has been identified in an investigation into an E.coli case in Wales. Public Health Wales confirmed that it was investigating two cases of E.coli in children who attend the nursery at Ysgol Pen Barras in Ruthin on Saturday.
However, PHW has since re-classified one of these cases as "probable", rather than confirmed. One child who attends the school has got a confirmed diagnosis of E.coli.
While there is currently no evidence to suggest the case has been transmitted or acquired from the school, children in the nursery and reception classes at the school were asked not to attend on Monday and Tuesday and were also asked to provide stool samples.
Read more: What are the signs and symptoms of E.coli and when to go to a doctor
One of the two children also attended a second setting, Miri Meithrin in Llanfair Dyffryn Cwlyd. The parents of children who attend this setting have been informed, and while the setting remains open, parents are being contacted on infection prevention and control measures as well as what steps to take if their child does become ill.
Richard Firth, Consultant in Public Health at Public Health Wales said: “Investigations have indicated that one of the cases attended a second setting, Miri Meithrin in Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd. Therefore, parents and guardians of children who may have had contact with the cases at this setting are being contacted and advised on infection prevention and control measures and what steps to take if their child develops symptoms.
“There is currently no evidence to suggest the illness has been transmitted or acquired in either setting. STEC infections can be serious and often cause severe diarrhoea, sometimes with blood in it, abdominal cramps and fever. Anyone unwell with diarrhoea or vomiting should stay away from school, nursery or work until they are advised by a medical professional that they are well enough to return, or they are free from symptoms for at least 48 hours.
“If you have concerns about your health, you should contact your GP or NHS Direct Wales by calling on 0845 46 47.”
You can find out more about the signs and symptoms of E.coli, as well as when to see a doctor, here.
Public Health Wales are encouraging people to follow these simple hygeine precautions if they are ill to reduce the risk of passing the illness onto others:
- Wash hands thoroughly before eating, preparing food and after going to the toilet. It is preferable to use liquid soap.
- Where possible, don’t prepare food for others.
- Wash any soiled bedding or clothing on as high a temperature as possible.
- Provide separate towels for anyone who is ill.
- Clean all surfaces, including food preparation surfaces and door handles on a regular (at least daily) basis with usual cleaning materials.
- If a child is unwell, contact with others should be kept to a minimum.
