PHA ‘working closely' with NI nursery closed following E-coli outbreak
Parents and staff at the nursery – which is in the Belfast area – have been informed and given advice on how to reduce the spread of infection.
The PHA has not named the nursery.
A spokesperson said: 'The Public Health Agency (PHA) is investigating and managing an outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) associated with a nursery in Belfast.
'All relevant public health actions are being undertaken. As a precautionary measure the nursery has voluntarily closed to allow for testing of all children and staff and a deep clean.
'PHA is working closely with the nursery to ensure all infection control measures are in place. Parents and staff at the nursery have been informed and given advice to help reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
"PHA continues to monitor the situation.'
STEC symptoms can include diarrhoea, stomach cramps and fever but most people recover within five to seven days.
The PHA also issued advice for anyone who contracts the infection.
'Most people with STEC infection get better within five to seven days,' they said.
"However diarrhoeal illnesses can be easily spread from person to person in nursery settings due to the close contact between children and staff, especially as young children may not be able to maintain good hand hygiene.
"It is vital that everyone follows some simple rules to help prevent the spread of diarrhoeal illness – not just those with symptoms.
News Catch Up - Tuesday 3 June
"Everyone should wash their hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food. Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available, however soap and water is the preferred option.
"People with vomiting or diarrhoea should remain at home until they have stopped having symptoms for at least 48 hours to avoid passing it on to others.'
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