HEALTH officials investigating an outbreak of salmonella infection last night revealed the number of people struck down by the illness had continued to rise - with 21 confirmed cases and seven suspected cases.

Two people were comfortable last night in hospital following the outbreak in the Derwentside area of County Durham.

Health chiefs have moved to allay fears, emphasising most people would recover without the need for any medical intervention.

Derwentside Primary Care Trust public health director Dr Ann Low said last night a team had continued to work over the weekend investigating the possible source of the infection and links between cases.

Dr Low said: "So far, we have identified one possible link. The outlet is Robson's Fresh Foods, in Stanley."

She said: "Our advice to members of the public remains that, as a precautionary measure, they should not eat and throw away any meat products purchased from Robson's Fresh Foods."

Dr Low revealed it was through the vigilance of laboratory staff that the outbreak was identified - allowing prompt action to be taken.

The proprietor of Robson's Fresh Foods, who is co-operating fully with Derwentside District Council, closed the shop on Thursday afternoon, as a result of the council serving an emergency prohibition order.

Dr Low said: "The message we need to get across, though, is that there is nothing for people to be alarmed about.

"The majority of people who get salmonella infection recover without any specific treatment.

"It is important if you get diarrhoea to drink plenty of liquid.

"There is only a minority that need to be admitted to hospital for more intensive rehydration and maybe antibiotic treatment."

Salmonella infections cause a range of symptoms, including diarrhoea, abdominal pain, headache, vomiting and fever.

Infection occurs through eating contaminated food, mainly of animal origin, or through close contact with an infected person or animal.

Dr Low urged people to observe basic food hygiene by washing their hands with soap and water before preparing food.

No one with diarrhoea should prepare food.

Anyone who has severe diarrhoea lasting more than 48 hours should contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647, or their GP.