Child seriously ill due to E. coli outbreak linked to daycare center in Reykjavík

A child is seriously ill due to an E. coli infection linked to a daycare center in Reykjavík. The child is receiving treatment at the Children’s Hospital, where a pediatric specialist has expressed concerns regarding the potential impact on kidney function if the illness worsens.

So far, twelve children have been admitted to the hospital as part of this outbreak. The pediatric specialist, Ragnar Bjarnason, noted that the affected children are as young as just over a year old. On the day of the report, there were eight or nine cases, though the number has since decreased.

Parents of children at the daycare are being urged to seek medical attention if they suspect exposure to the infection, particularly if their children exhibit symptoms such as diarrhea or bloody stools. The principal of Mánagarður daycare, Sóffía Emelía Bragadóttir, confirmed that a monitoring group has been established by the health authorities to trace the source of the outbreak.

Ragnar emphasized the importance of vigilance, encouraging any parents who suspect their children may have contracted the infection to contact the hospital. The situation highlights the risks associated with E. coli, especially its potential severity in young children. Local health officials continue to work on addressing the outbreak and ensuring the safety of the community.