South West at centre of deadly E.coli outbreak linked to mixed salad
The South West is at the centre of an E.coli outbreak - which has already killed two.
It is believed the illness may be linked to mixed salad leaves, possibly including rocket, imported from the Mediterranean.
Public Health England (PHE) is investigating the outbreak of E. coli O157, which has so far affected 151 people - mainly in our region.
PHE said it has advised "a small number of wholesalers" to stop adding some imported rocket leaves to their mixed salad bags as a precautionary measure.
People are people advised to remove any loose soil before storing vegetables and should also thoroughly wash all vegetables and salad which will be eaten raw.
Those pre-prepared and labelled "ready to eat" are not at risk,
People should also wash their hands with soap after using the toilet, before and after handling food, and after contact with pets and animals, including farm animals.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
E. coli O157 can cause a range of symptoms, including mild to bloody diarrhoea and severe abdominal pain.
HOW DO I CONTRACT IT?
It can be passed on to other people through poor hand washing and poor toilet hygiene.
PHE first became aware of the possibility of an E.coli O157 outbreak in the south of England at the end of June.