A primary school has been closed after two children were diagnosed with the E coli infection.
Feltham Hill Nursery and Infant School, in Bedfont Road, Feltham, shut its doors to all 385 pupils today.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) said other children and family had reported suffering from diarrhoea, but it was too early to say whether it was caused by the same bug.
Parents of the school’s pupils, aged between three and seven years old, have been urged to wash their hands thoroughly and ensure that they prepare and cook food correctly.
Dr Brian McCloskey, London regional director for the HPA, said: “The decision to close the school is a precaution while the investigation is being carried out. The local health protection unit is working closely with the school and parents have been informed of the position.
“E coli is an infectious disease and cases can occur as a result of transmission between people who have close contact with one another. The symptoms include quite severe abdominal pain and diarrhoea which may have blood in it.”
He added: “Personal hygiene is very important in preventing spread of E coli O157 infection. It is important that people remember to wash their hands thoroughly after using the toilet, handling raw meat, before meals and after contact with animals.”
The HPA said the E coli infection passes within seven days without treatment, but can be more serious.
Diarrhoea may contain blood, and occasionally serious kidney and blood complications can occur.
Parents should contact their GP immediately if they are concerned their child has symptoms of the bug.
The HPA said it was continuing its investigation.
For more information call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
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