A SICKNESS outbreak that had been linked to a Breconshire garden centre has been declared over.
Public health officials confirmed the cause of an outbreak of diarrhoea and vomiting that struck people who’d visited the Old Railway Line Garden Centre in Three Cocks was the norovirus.
The popular attraction has remained open throughout and its owners have worked with Environmental Health Officers of Powys County Council to control the outbreak and to take measures to prevent further cases.
Public Health Wales confirmed 53 people are known to have become unwell with diarrhoea and vomiting after attending the garden centre.
All cases visited the business between Mother’s Day, Sunday March 6 and Tuesday, March 8.
The garden centre said some of those affected were staff. It had also said it believed the outbreak was due to the norovirus, which had also struck at hospitals in South Wales in early March.
Sion Lingard, consultant in health protection for Public Health Wales, said: "We have identified the cause of the outbreak as Norovirus. "Environmental Health Officers from Powys County Council have worked closely with the business to ensure there is no ongoing risk.
"Norovirus is the most common cause of gastroenteritis (stomach bugs) in Wales. Symptoms develop 24-48 hours after being infected with the virus and include nausea, vomiting and watery diarrhoea.
"Norovirus infection usually resolves within one to two days without any medical treatment, but it is important to drink plenty of fluids while unwell to prevent dehydration."
If symptoms are severe or last more than 48 hours then individuals should seek advice from their GP or NHS Direct Wales.
Public Health Wales said it is important those who have been suffering from diarrhoea or vomiting stay off work or school until they have been symptom free for 48 hours to prevent spreading the infection to others.
"It is also very important that people thoroughly wash their hands after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food," said Dr Lingard.