WQ93193 (e) Tabled on 12/06/2024

What steps is the Cabinet Secretary taking in response to the increasing number of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli cases in the UK in recent weeks?

Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care | Answered on 18/06/2024

I have asked my officials to keep me regularly informed of the ongoing UK-wide investigations. As a result of evidence gathered to date, , food businesses have undertaken precautionary recalls and product recall information notices have been published by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).

My officials are in regular contact with Public Health Wales (PHW) and the FSA, who are fully engaged in the UK-wide incident response. 

Healthcare workers in Wales have been informed of the increase in cases and reminded of clinical management guidance. Symptoms of infections include severe and sometimes bloody diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting and fever. If anyone has diarrhoea and vomiting, they can take steps to avoid passing it on to family and friends. NHS 111 has information on what to do if people have symptoms and when to seek medical advice.