Experts Also Reveal Concerns About Recent Spate Of UK Outbreaks

Specialist lawyers representing hundreds of victims of illness outbreaks both in the UK and abroad have been contacted by family members of one person who has been affected by the E.coli outbreak which has been linked to Robinson’s Butchers.

A total of 15 cases of illness have emerged as a result of the outbreak, with health officials stating that many of those affected fell ill after eating pre-cooked meats or savoury products purchased or supplied by the Robinson’s Butchers site in Billingham. 

Six of the victims – including four children aged between 8 and 14 – have been hospitalised due to the problems.

Investigations into the source of the outbreak are continuing and anyone who bought products from the shop between 25th June and 15th July has been advised to dispose of the items.

Now Irwin Mitchell’s specialist Public Health lawyers, who have vast experience acting for victims of illness outbreaks, have been contacted for help regarding the outbreak.

The law firm which represents hundreds of people affected by a number of illness outbreaks in the UK in recent years, including one linked to the Exeter Arms pub operated by Toby Carvery in Middlemoor, is also calling for a further review to take place following the worrying number of problems seen in the last 12 months.

Expert Opinion

“We have now heard first-hand accounts regarding the outbreak which has been linked to Robinson's butchers in Billingham and are beginning to make our own enquiries in relation to the problems. We would also be keen to hear from anyone else affected by the issues.

“It is vital that Public Heath England and the local environmental health authorities continue to work swiftly to determine the source of the outbreak. It is clearly in the public’s interest to identify the cause as soon as possible, so that further steps can be taken to mitigate the risk of further cases and to ensure that lessons can be learned to help to prevent similar outbreaks in the future.

“The seriousness of E.coli cannot be underestimated, as we have seen numerous cases where victims require care from family and friends as well as significant time off work to try and recover from such problems. In addition, those affected can also develop long-term health problems which can affect them for the rest of their lives.

“This outbreak is, unfortunately, just the latest in a long line of outbreaks which have occurred in the UK in recent months.

“All of these are very worrying and it is clear that steps should be taken to assess each and every case to determine if any new approach can be taken to reduce the risks faced by the general public.” Amandeep Dhillon - Partner