FSA issue warning over spread of food poisoning bug

Officials at the Food Safety Authority have expressed concern at the prevalence of a food poisoning bug.

"Campylobacter" effects at least 2000 people a year. It is a naturally occurring bacteria found mainly in poultry and transmission to humans can be avoided through proper hygiene systems.

Chief Executive of the FSA, Dr Pat Wall, says the bug results in hospitalisation for the more vulnerable in our society.

"Small children or frail elderly people or the many people in Ireland who have other diseases and are on medication etc. They would be quite susceptible and for them it would be quite severe and they would represent the people that end up in hospital."