Advice for parents and children planning farm visits

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) North West is advising families who are planning visits to petting farms and other visitor attractions with animals to take particular care with hand-washing.

Dr. Ken Lamden, HPA North West’s consultant with lead responsibility for gastro-intestinal infections said: “Farm visits are great fun and educational for children and we wouldn’t wish to discourage them, but people need to remember that a range of infections can be passed on through contact with animals unless care is taken to avoid them.

“It is very important for parents and children to make full use of the washing facilities that are provided at open farms. They should wash their hands thoroughly after contact with the animals, before eating and before putting fingers near their mouths.”

Illnesses that can be contracted by stroking animals include cryptosporidiosis, an infection caused by the parasite cryptosporidium, Ecoli O157 which can be particularly serious for young children, salmonella, campylobacter and giardia.*

It is wise to follow this advice:

• Check the hygiene facilities at the farm – there should be good handwashing facilities with hot water, soap and paper towels.
• Always wash hands carefully after touching the animals and other farm objects and especially before eating or drinking.
• Do not eat or drink or put your fingers in your mouth while you are near animals or before you have washed your hands.
• If possible to do so, thoroughly clean Wellingtons and pushchair wheels before leaving the farm.