New case of suspected e.coli

NHS Orkney and Orkney Islands Council are investigating another case of suspected e.coli poisoning in the county bringing the total of suspected cases to nine since August.

Of these, the number of confirmed cases of e.coli 0157 remains at six.

An recent investigation into earlier infections, carried out by NHS Orkney and the council, found no definitive explanation for the outbreak.

Dr Louise Wilson, NHS Orkney director of public health, said: “One of the simplest things that can be done to prevent infection with e.coli O157 is to wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet or changing nappies, and before preparing or eating food. It is also important to wash your hands after contact with animals or their environment.”