SEVEN cases of E. coli have been confirmed in Cheshire and Merseyside following a reported outbreak earlier this year.

Public Health England (PHE), Public Health Wales (PHW) and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) are investigating an outbreak of E. coli across England and Wales. 

As of September 8, there are 40 confirmed cases. 

Initial investigations have indicated that pre-packed salad is the most likely cause of the outbreak.  Dr Anjila Shah from PHE’s North West’s Cheshire and Merseyside Health Protection team said: “We have been working with colleagues nationally and with the Food Standards Agency to investigate the cause of this outbreak. 

"To date seven cases have been confirmed across the Cheshire and Merseyside area and public health measures have been put in place to prevent further infection. 

"Investigations into these cases is on-going so it is not possible to speculate further as to the cause and source of the infection." 

E. coli is a bacterium that can cause bowel infection.

It is usually spread by contact with animals or infected meat products, but it also spreads from person-to-person. 

Symptoms include diarrhoea which is usually mild and settles within two weeks.  

Some people may have more serious illness with bloody diarrhoea, abdominal pain, raised temperature and shivering attacks. 

Paul Cleary, consultant epidemiologist for Public Health England said: “The public can protect themselves from getting, and spreading E. coli through good hygiene practices.  

"This is particularly important when handling or preparing food, as consuming contaminated food or water are common sources of infection.  

“Foods that require cooking should be cooked thoroughly and all fruits and vegetables eaten raw should be washed to help remove bacteria from the outside.  

"Ready-to-eat pre-packed salads do not generally need to be re-washed unless it states otherwise on the packet.  

"It is also important to wash and dry hands thoroughly after going to the toilet.”

Jatinder Paul, an expert public health expert at Irwin Mitchell, who is currently representing a number of those affected by an E. coli outbreak linked to an outlet of Robinson’s Butchers in the north-east, described the outbreak as ‘concerning’.

He said: “It is vital that Public Heath England and the local environmental health authorities continue to work swiftly to pinpoint the source of the latest E. coli outbreak."