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Visualisation of Ecoli virus

Personal injury

For free e coli claims advice call us on Freephone 0800 358 3848 or email personalinjury@ffw.com

E Coli is a common bacteria. It is often found in the gut of both humans and animals. It can live on surfaces such as metal and can be difficult to detect. Most E Coli is harmless, however, there are certain strains of E Coli 0157 that are dangerous and can be potentially life threatening for those four or under or the elderly. In essence, the E Coli produces toxins which can lead to Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) which can cause Renal Failure. This, in the worst cases, can lead to brain damage or death.

Generally, E Coli 0157 will lead to symptoms not dissimilar to salmonella. Vomiting and diarrhoea will be evident. However, the number of bacteria that you need to be exposed to is small and the bacteria can be readily passed from one to another. Contact with other members of the household should be restricted as much as possible. E Coli is transferred through faecal material and needs to be ingested, so good hygiene is essential.

Jill Greenfield is a solicitor with specific expertise in dealing with cases involving exposure to E Coli 0157. She acted on behalf of a young boy who suffered brain damage following a trip to a London farm on a school trip. A number of criticisms were levied at the farm and the school. Jill worked with Professor Beutin, an expert on E Coli 0157, based in Berlin and the then Vice-Chairman of the World Health Organisation. With the help of Professor Beutin and a number of other experts, a link between the farm and the exposure was established and liability was eventually admitted by the defendants, both the local authority for the school and the farm. Damages of £2.6 million were recovered.

Fortunately such cases are not common, although the outbreak in South Wales in September 2005 demonstrates just how dangerous such an outbreak can be.

For free initial advice call us on freephone 0800 358 3848. Alternatively, you can contact Jill Greenfield.

We conduct many personal injury claims on a “no win, no fee” basis