Health chiefs issue warning over lambing season
Farm animals carry germs that can be very harmful to our health
Health chiefs in the region have issued a warning about the dangers presented to families by handling sheep and lambs.
People visiting farms during lambing season are being warned to wash their hands after touching sheep and lambs.
The UK Health Security Agency says that last spring it investigated 24 outbreaks of potentially-deadly cryptosporidiosis linked to lambing events or petting farms – 21 of which took place during lambing season, which runs from March to May.
Farm animals naturally carry bacteria and parasites, including cryptosporidium parvum and E. coli.
These germs are invisible to the naked eye and can be passed to humans through direct contact with animals, their droppings, or contaminated surfaces such as fences and gates.
Young children, pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals are the most vulnerable, but anyone can become unwell, say health experts.
Jennifer Taylor, consultant in health protection at UKHSA South West, said: “In the South West, we are fortunate to have many farms that people can visit.
“Farm visits are enjoyable and educational, particularly for children, but they do carry a risk of picking up infections from animals or the farm environment.
“Some of these infections can be more serious for young children and pregnant women.
“Infections can be picked up from the animal’s body, its droppings, or from areas where animals are kept or have recently been.
“If germs are on your hands, you could accidentally transfer them to your mouth without realising, as hands look clean even when they are not.
“Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water immediately after touching animals or their surroundings, before eating, and at the end of your visit is the most effective way to reduce the risk of infection.
“Hand gels or wipes are not a substitute for proper hand washing. Farms provide hand washing facilities, so we encourage people to make use of these to ensure the only thing you take away from your visit is happy memories.”
“It is also important to clean footwear or pushchair wheels that might have become soiled. Once you’ve finished cleaning them, remember to wash your hands thoroughly again.”
Anyone who develops diarrhoea, vomiting or stomach pains within two weeks of visiting a farm should contact their GP or call NHS 111 for advice. If anyone – especially a young child – has blood in their diarrhoea, emergency medical care should be sought immediately.