E coli report published

A report into the outbreak of e.coli at an open farm last year has emphasised the importance of measures to reduce the risk of infection and the prompt control of any outbreaks.

The Griffin Report said that the outbreak at Godstone Farm was not exceptional other than in terms of its size. The report concludes that even with the earliest possible identification and control of the outbreak, around half of the cases of infection would already have occurred even before any restriction or closure.

The report also states that handwashing alone cannot be relied upon to prevent outbreaks acquired by contact with animals or their faeces. Reducing the chance of contact with faecal matter should be a primary measure, according to the report. In addition, the report stresses the need for greater awareness of the risks of animal contact among farm owners, regulatory authorities and visitors to Open Farms.

Outbreaks of E.coli on five farms in Devon, Surrey, North Yorkshire, and Nottinghamshire in September last year, which left several children seriously ill, led to the report being commissioned.The Health Protection Agency carried out the investigation, led by Professor George Griffin. The findings of the 250-page report were made public on 15 June 2010.
City and School farmers can get a summary of recommendations in the report by visiting the Farming and Countryside Education website. 

A full summary of recommendations of Griffin Report is available from the official website at www.griffininvestigation.org.uk