A lamb feeding event in South Ribble is being linked to an E. coli O157 outbreak that has resulted in 11 laboratory-confirmed cases and four hospitalizations, according to a multi-agency investigation taking place in North West England.
Public Health England, environmental health officers from across Lancashire and officials from the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency are investigating the cases. All cases had visited a lamb feeding event at Huntley’s Country Store, near Salmesbury in South Ribble over recent weeks.
Health officials say there is no longer any risk to the public as all contact between animals and the public at the premises has now ceased. For more infectious disease news and information, visit and “like” the Infectious Disease News Facebook page.
Dr Ken Lamden, Consultant in Health Protection from the Cumbria and Lancashire’s PHE Centre said, “Investigations are still on going and all public health measures have been put in place. The owners are co-operating fully and we are working closely with them and with colleagues across health and local authorities.
“Symptoms of ‘E. coli O157’ include bloody diarrhea, which can be serious, or milder forms of the infection which are usually self-limiting and clear within 7 days.
“It is believed the outbreak began before Easter. Anyone who visited the lambing event between 29 March and 24 April and who is unwell with diarrhea, bloody diarrhea or passing less urine than usual should seek medical advice or contact NHS 111.”
