AN INVESTIGATION has been launched into a Norovirus outbreak at an outdoor activity centre near Bala.

Public Health Wales and Gwynedd Council are working together to investigate a number of cases of diarrhoea and vomiting linked to Gwersyll yr Urdd Glan-llyn outdoor activity centre, near Bala.

A number of individuals from various schools are known to have become unwell at the centre on a recent residential school trip.

Investigations into both the source and the cause of the illness are ongoing, but Norovirus is suspected to be the most likely cause.

The centre undertook a deep clean over the weekend, and reopened on Monday, July 16.

Dr Brendan Mason, consultant in communicable disease control for Public Health Wales, said: “We are aware that individuals from various schools are affected.

“Gwynedd Environmental Health Officers are continuing to investigate the incident.

“Anyone who has been ill should not return to work or school for 48 hours after their last symptoms to prevent spreading infection to others.

“We would remind anyone who is unwell at any time with diarrhoea or vomiting that they should seek advice from NHS Direct Wales or their GP if they are concerned about their symptoms.

“It is also important to avoid spreading infection to other people at home, and people who are unwell should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after using the toilet and before preparing food, and should not share towels with other people.”

A spokesperson for Gwynedd Council said: "Officers of Gwynedd Council, in conjunction with personnel from our partner organisation, Public Health Wales, have been investigating incidences of vomiting and diarrhoea  amongst children and staff at Gwersyll yr Urdd, Glanllyn.

"Gwersyll yr Urdd have been issued with disease control advice and have taken action to prevent a reoccurrence.

"The investigation is currently ongoing."