Experts Reveal Concerns Over Illness Problems

Illness experts at Irwin Mitchell who specialise in cases of food poisoning in the UK and abroad have called for answers after Friarswood Primary School in Newcastle Under Lyme was temporarily closed following an outbreak of E.coli 157.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has confirmed that 18 pupils at the Staffordshire school have tested positive for the potentially fatal bacterial illness and that all other pupils at the school will be examined for further cases. Reports suggest the school  is to be closed until Easter.

E.coli can cause many symptoms of illness including diarrhoea, vomiting and fever as well as symptoms as serious as renal failure (kidney failure) and heart hypertension.

Sim Singh, an illness lawyer at Irwin Mitchell who specialises in cases of illness in the UK and abroad, said: "We work with a number of clients who have seen their lives turned upside down by illness problems linked to E.coli and it is incredibly important that authorities work to prevent further people from suffering due to this instance.

"Food poisoning and related illnesses can be caused by a range of factors and it must be investigated whether the illnesses experienced by pupils are potentially linked to a breakdown in food handling and hygiene procedures.

"Ultimately, lessons must be learned which will ensure that an outbreak of this kind can be avoided by all schools in the future."

If you or a loved one has suffered food poisoning due to poor hygiene standards, our illness solicitors could help you claim compensation. Visit our Food Poisoning Claims page for more information.