E. coli O157 – Update 16 Oct 2012

The Public Health Agency (PHA) and Environmental Health Officers from Belfast City Council are continuing an investigation of an outbreak of E. coli O157 linked to Flicks restaurant in Cityside Mall, 100-150 York Street, Belfast.

The situation is changing constantly and as of 9pm on Monday 15 October 2012, there are 20 confirmed cases and 118 probable cases. Six people have been hospitalised since the start of the outbreak, but most have now gone home.

Dr Michael Devine, Consultant in Health Protection, PHA said "The further increase in cases is not unexpected as the incubation period for E coli is typically up to seven days. We expect therefore to see a further increase in cases as people continue to report symptoms and submit samples for testing. This does not reflect a worsening situation." 

Dr Devine continued "It's 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."  

Investigations are continuing and final conclusions will emerge when all cases have been identified and analysed to identify any common links.

The management of Flicks have voluntarily closed the premises and are cooperating with the investigation.

The PHA has advised that anyone who ate at Flicks restaurant since 24 September and has symptoms of diarrhoea (especially bloody diarrhoea) and/ or abdominal pain should contact their GP urgently for medical advice. 

Dr Devine explained: “The Escherichia coli bacteria is commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. There are many different types of E. coli, and while some live in the intestine quite harmlessly, others may cause a variety of diseases. The bacterium is found in faeces and can survive in the environment.

“Symptoms caused by E. coli O157 can include diarrhoea, which can range from mild to profuse watery or bloody diarrhoea, tummy cramps, nausea or vomiting.”

The PHA is also aware of four cases of E. coli O157 among adults in August which were linked to this restaurant, and alongside Belfast City Council Environmental Health Officers, investigated those at the time. All tests on the restaurant at that time were negative. In addition, further environmental health inspections were conducted, all of which were satisfactory, and enhanced surveillance to monitor for cases was also put in place. The current cases came to light through that enhanced monitoring.

As part of the investigation into the current outbreak, any potential link with the previous cases will be examined, although it is too early to comment further on this at such an early stage.