In a written statement from UKHSA, it was stated that there was an increase in diseases caused by E. coli bacteria in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
In the statement, it was stated that the bacterium causes diarrhea types such as bloody diarrhea and urinary tract infections, and it was emphasized that the diseases occur as a result of contact with foods that carry the bacteria, also called “e.coli”, and people and animals infected with the disease.
In the statement, which stated that there was an epidemic in the country, it was stated that the food distributed nationally came to the fore as the reason why the cases were seen in a wide area.
The statement also pointed out that the source of contamination could not be identified and that there was no evidence that it was farms, drinking water, pools, sea water, lakes or rivers.
It was stated in the statement that 113 cases were detected throughout the United Kingdom as of June 4, 81 of which were seen in England, 18 in Wales and 13 in Scotland.
In the statement, it was stated that one case was detected in Northern Ireland, but this person had a history of visiting England.
It was stated in the statement that the youngest of those detected with E. coli was 2 years old and the oldest was 79 years old, and that the number of cases was estimated to increase to 1500 by the end of the year.
It is recommended to wash hands frequently, comply with food hygiene measures and avoid contact
According to the statement, 60 percent of the 81 cases seen in England were treated in hospital, while 61 people shared food and travel information that could be a source of contamination.
In order to prevent the epidemic, it was recommended to wash hands frequently with soap and warm water, comply with food hygiene measures, wash and cook fruits and vegetables thoroughly, stop contact with others while having diarrhea, and avoid going to school or work if possible.
UKHSA Case Manager Trish Mannes, whose evaluations were included in the statement, said that E. coli causes stomach cramps, vomiting and fever, as well as diarrhea.
Mannes stated that people with complaints of diarrhea and vomiting should not prepare food for others and said, “Do not return to school, work or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have passed.” he warned.
Daren Whitby from the UK Food Standards Agency also stated that they believe the source of the epidemic may be one or more food products.
Whitby underlines that it is necessary to be careful from purchasing food to preparing it, saying, “Thoroughly cleaning hands, cooking equipment, kitchen utensils and surfaces also prevents cross-contamination.” said.
In the statement, it was recommended that babies under 1 year of age, weaned children, children under 5 who do not urinate for a long time, and those who have complaints of diarrhea for more than 7 days and vomiting for more than 2 days should contact health institutions as soon as possible. (AA)