Health officials said on Saturday that 12 children were being treated in hospital after contracting the E. coli bacteria on a visit to a farm where visitors pet farm animals.
A total of 36 people had suffered from gastrointestinal illness in the outbreak which was traced to Godstone Farm in Surrey, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) said.
Four of the infected children are said to be seriously ill, media reports said.
The farm, which allows children to see and touch a variety of animals and attracts up to 2,000 visitors a day, has been closed while a detailed investigation is carried out.
“This is a large outbreak of this infection,” said Angela Iversen, Director of the local Health Protection Unit.
“The farm owners are cooperating fully and we are working closely with them and with colleagues across health and local authorities to investigate the source,” she said.
The E. coli 0157 bacteria causes diarrhea and vomiting, but can lead to kidney failure, especially in young children, the HPA said. Officials believe the outbreak began on Aug. 8.
“E. coli 0157 is an infection that people can pick up when handling or stroking animals, unless hands are thoroughly washed afterwards to minimize the risk,” Iversen said.
“It can also be spread easily from person to person so good hygiene is vital, especially in young children,” she said.
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