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5th October 2009

Families affected by E-Coli to take part in the Inquiry

An Inquiry into the recent E-Coli outbreaks has been launched, led by George Griffin, Professor of Infectious Diseases and Medicine at St. George’s University of London.

Children remain in hospital

Although in a stable condition and not seriously ill, three children are still in hospital after contracting this disease at one of 3 children’s petting farms.

The first outbreak occurred at Godstone Farm in Surrey and the farm was closed on 12th September. Four other farms have closed since the outbreak.

Total number infected with E-Coli

The total number affected by the outbreaks currently stands at 87 and families of those affected are being asked if they wish to take part in the investigation. The outcome of the investigation will be made available to the public.

The aims of the E-Coli investigation

The aim of the investigation is said to be to recommend actions that would reduce the risk of future infections whilst allowing open farms to continue. It is also aimed at improving the health protection response to any future outbreaks.

Making a claim for E-Coli compensation

Developing E-coli does not mean automatically that you have a valid claim for compensation. The outcome of any claim depends on the facts of the case, such as whether the injury or illness was foreseeable but was not prevented by the responsible person or organisation. It is important to seek legal advice promptly as strict time limits apply to making a claim.

Parents of infected children who suffer permanent damage as a result of the E-coli may wish to seek legal advice on whether they are entitled to compensation for the injuries suffered by their child.

Legal advice may also be sought if there appears to have been a delay by a medical professional in diagnosing the E-coli infection, or if there has been a misdiagnosis which could have a worse outcome for the patient.

Clear Answers has extensive experience in these types of personal injury compensation claims, particularly cases which may involve multi-party actions where several victims wish to take action as a group, or individual cases of food poisoning or medical negligence.

You will receive 100% of the compensation awarded to you, and the person responsible for your injury will pay our legal fees - our service will be cost-free for you. Clear Answers’ lawyers have teams of specialists waiting to help you, should you decide to instruct us to represent you in your compensation claim.

There are some exceptions to this in Medical Negligence cases. Please go to our Costs and Risks section for more detailed information on these and how Clear Answers will handle your claim and funding.

We will be happy to provide you with expert legal advice, and our specialist personal injury lawyers will talk you through the claims process in plain English. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding your claim.

If you or a family member has been injured in these circumstances, please ring us on 0800 783 9019 and speak to one of our advisers. Alternatively, if you prefer to complete one of our online compensation claim forms, a representative will contact you as quickly as possible.

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