Health officials are investigating if two children from Kent were infected with E. coli during a visit to a petting farm in Wales.

The youngsters, who are now recovering at home, had both visited Cantref Adventure Farm in the Brecon Beacons.

Another two family members have tested positive for the illness, which causes severe diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and fever. One is believed to have contracted the infection through contact with the child.

Public Health Wales is working with Powys County Council to investigate the cause of the outbreak. Environmental health officers in Kent have also been contacted.

Dr Mac Walapu, consultant in communicable disease control for Public Health Wales, said: "Both children had visited Cantref Adventure Farm in the days before their illness and we are focusing our investigations on the farm, whose owners have co-operated fully.

"Anyone who has visited the farm since the beginning of August and has symptoms of E. coli should contact their GP as soon as possible.

"The infection can pass from person to person and so it is important that anyone who is ill should observe strict personal hygiene to avoid spreading the infection."

Cantref Adventure Farm has stopped direct contact between animals and members as a precautionary measure. It has also begun a deep clean of the premises.

Dr Walapu urged people to wash and dry their hands thoroughly after going to the toilet or handling animals and before preparing or eating food.

"Disinfecting all areas of the bathroom regularly, including hard surfaces and toilet and door handles, can also help limit the risk of further infection," he added.

"Anyone who is unwell with E. coli should stay away from school, nursery or work while they have symptoms and until they are advised that they are well enough to return."

A spokesman for Public Health Wales said it was "not uncommon" for outbreaks of E. coli to be linked with children having contact with farm animals.

The infection can also be contracted by eating contaminated food or drinking unpasteurised milk.