Health officials in Newfoundland and Labrador are advising of an E. coli outbreak in the province following 22 confirmed cases this week.

MUN students first started coming forward with symptoms in late September.

Service NL is now investigating.

E. coli is spread through contaminated food or water. Person-to-person transmission can also occur.

Officials say proper food preparation techniques and hand washing are important in the prevention of E. coli.

Anyone experiencing severe diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, and abdominal pain is being asked to seek medical attention.

Food handlers, health care workers, daycare workers, and children attending daycares who have those symptoms should remain home until the symptoms are resolved and they are cleared by a health care professional.

Review further food safety information via the Department of Health and Community Services at this link.