Source of illness which hit 69 people '˜not yet known'

An investigation is underway over a potential link between the 69 cases of illness and a restaurant in Garforth, as reported previously in the Yorkshire Evening Post.

Public Health England, which is looking into the outbreak with Leeds City Council, said the source had not yet been found and inquiries were continuing.

A spokeswoman for Public Health England said: “The investigation is ongoing and to date no source has been confirmed.

“Reports of new cases have now reduced significantly. Those who were ill reported suffering diarrhoea and vomiting symptoms. These gastroenteritis symptoms are particularly common at this time of the year and can have a range of causes, including viruses as well as bacterial bugs.”

She added that anyone with similar symptoms should follow basic health advice, avoid going to their GP, wash hands frequently and stay away from work or school until at least 48 hours after symptoms have ended.

However the restaurant at the centre of the investigation, the Aagrah Garforth, told the Yorkshire Evening Post that food samples from the premises had tested clear and are not linked to the outbreak.

They said there was currently “insufficient evidence” to identify the source and the possibility that it was a viral bug had not been ruled out.

Manager Wasim Aslam said: “We are delighted the food samples have tested clear, we are grateful to all our loyal customers who showed support and faith in Aagrah by continuing to dine with us during the investigating period.”