Although farm visits can be fun and
educational it is important to remember that farm animals can
carry viruses and bacteria, including E.coli, that can be
harmful to people. In fact, some of these infections that may
be passed from animals to humans can cause very serious
illnesses, especially in children.
These illnesses occur when germs from animals are transferred to
the mouth. If hands are placed in or near the mouth after touching
animals, fences footwear or other surfaces that may be contaminated
by animal droppings, it is possible you may become unwell.
They can also occur when food is eaten with unwashed,
contaminated hands, which allows you to swallow harmful bacteria or
viruses.
The Health Protection Agency has produced a leaflet giving
advice on farm visits and how to reduce the risk of infection which
you can view by following the link below:
What should I do if I feel unwell after a farm visit?
If you or anyone in your group, particularly children, feels
unwell with sickness and diarrhoea within two weeks after visiting
a farm, you should contact your GP or call NHS Direct on
0845 4647. Anyone who feels unwell should continue
to wash their hands thoroughly and often.
Children under five should not attend school/nursery/group
childcare until they have had no sickness or diarrhoea for two
days. Parents should discuss their situation with their health
professional before the child returns to school or nursery as tests
may be required to confirm it is safe for them to return.
Anyone who suspects they or their children may have E.coli O157
should contact their GP or out-of-hours service as soon as
possible.