A SUSPECTED outbreak of salmonella is being investigated by Monmouthshire county council's environmental health department.

Its experts are working with the National Public Health Service for Wales on the investigation, which is in its early stages.

A Monmouthshire county council spokesman said investigators are focusing on determining the cause of the outbreak.

No further details are being confirmed, but the Argus understands there to be some 11 suspected cases, dating from April 4 and several days following.

Salmonella is usually contracted by eating contaminated food and can cause diarrhoea, stomach cramps and sometimes vomiting and fever.

People who become ill with salmonella generally make a full recovery but complications may occur in elderly people, young children and people with impaired immune systems.

It is important for people with symptoms of salmonella to ensure that they wash their hands regularly to prevent spread of the infection to other people.

Anyone who believes they may be suffering from food poisoning should contact their GP or the environmental health department of their local authority.

Anyone in Monmouthshire who may be concerned should contact the county council's environmental health department on 01633 644100.