| Although the number of confirmed cases of cryptosporidium infection has risen to 104, NHS Tayside’s outbreak control team reported a reduction in the rate at which they are increasing, suggesting the problem is lessening.
Since the Easter holidays, the number of people suffering from debilitating symptoms has steadily grown.
All can be traced to the outbreak at Auchingarrich Wildlife Centre in Comrie, where contact with animal droppings is believed to have been the source.
NHS Tayside said today the 104 cases can be broken down, based on health board areas, into 72 from Tayside, 12 from Forth Valley, seven from Fife, six from Greater Glasgow, three in Grampian, three in Argyll & Clyde and one in Lothian.
Also emerging now is a fuller picture of the level of “secondary cases”, where those affected did not visit Auchingarrich.
NHS Tayside has established a number of confirmed cases came from contact with another person who had the bug.
A spokesman revealed the team has found evidence of secondary spread of cryptosporidium from Auchingarrich among young children who attend two nurseries in Tayside.
Cryptosporidium is commonly found in animal intestines and can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps and a slight fever.
No one is seriously ill, although six children have been treated in hospital and are now recovering.An outbreak control team coAn outbreak control team comprising representatives of NHS Tayside, NHS Forth Valley, Perth & Kinross Council and Health Protection ouncil and Health Protection Scotland is continuing detailed investigations to identify the source of the infection.fection.
Auchingarrich Wildlife Centre has suspended animal petting.
The outbreak control team repeated advice to the public to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with animals, animal faeces or people infected with cryptosporidium.
Dr Christopher McGuigan, NHS Tayside Consultant in Public Health Medicine and chair of the outbreak control team said, “The number of confirmed cases of cryptosporidium continues to rise, but the rate of rise appears to be reducing.
“Our focus has turned to preventing further infections through secondary contact, but our advice remains the same — simple, but thorough, hand-washing with soap and water after contact with animals or their environment or someone who is ill, is the most effective way of protecting against this kind of infection.
“It is also worthwhile to remember the general advice to prevent further spread of vomiting and diarrhoea.
“Anyone who is experiencing symptoms should stay at home avoiding workplaces, schools and, in particular, nurseries for 48 hours after symptoms disappear.
“Again, strict hand hygiene is the best way to prevent spread of these infections.
“Anyone who has become ill after visiting the centre themselves, or being in contact with someone who has visited, and who has concerns about their health, should consult their GP.” |
