America's North Shore Journal

It has emerged health officials knew about the outbreak among people who visited the farm days before it was closed to the public. The Health Protection Agency became aware of the outbreak in late August after cases were traced to the farm. The farm, which is a popular destination for families, was closed when a pattern was established as the number of infected children rose. All the sick children are aged under 10. The Health Protection Agency (HPA) says 36 cases have been reported so far. The outbreak is believed to have started on 8 August. The bacteria causes diarrhoea and can lead to kidney failure, especially in young children. It is fatal in very rare cases. HPA spokesman Dr Graham Bickler said it was one of the largest outbreaks seen in the UK. BBC More … Read entire article »