More E. coli Cases Associated with a Reykjavík Preschool

No samples from the school´s employees have been received for testing so far. The preschool remains closed since the outbreak was first reported.

Currently, 27 children are under the care of Landspítali University Hospital. Two of these children are hospitalized, both in intensive care.

Investigation and Response

The investigation into the source of the infection is ongoing, with contaminated food suspected as the likely cause, though proving this can take time and is not always successful. A task force consisting of representatives from the Chief Epidemiologist, the primary care service, municipal public health authorities, the Food and Veterinary Authority, MATÍS, and the Landspítali’s microbiology department is active. The Reykjavík Health Authority is conducting a food safety investigation and advising the preschool on handling of food, cooking and hygiene measures.

E. coli and Food Safety

MAST on its website a reminder that STEC bacteria are part of the natural intestinal flora of animals in Iceland, including cattle and sheep. A 2019 screening found that STEC genes were present in about 30% of Icelandic lamb samples and 11.5% of beef samples. As in many other places, these bacteria appear to be part of the natural microflora of cattle and sheep.

To reduce the risk of contamination, proper hygiene during slaughter and food preparation is essential. STEC and other harmful microorganisms can be killed by cooking steaks at high temperatures and ensuring that hamburgers and other minced meat dishes are fully cooked to an internal temperature of at least 75 °C. (Chicken and pork should also always be cooked through to prevent salmonella infection.)

Advice for Families

Parents with ties to the preschool should follow these guidelines regarding STEC infections:

• If a child has no symptoms, they can continue with normal activities, but handwashing and good hygiene-especially around toilet use and diaper changes-are essential. Always wash hands before and after meals. Note that symptoms can be mild and some infected individuals can be without symptoms.

• For mild gastrointestinal symptoms, contact the healthcare information line at +354-513-1700 for advice, and ensure the child stays well-hydrated. A stool sample should be sent for diagnosis.

• If a child shows severe symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or lethargy, contact the emergency department for children at Landspítali immediately.

The Chief Epidemiologist

Further Information:

• Website of the Directorate of Health: Infectious Diseases A-Z (E. coli)

• Website of the Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST)

• Heilsuvera