As the Easter holidays approach, families planning to visit farms and other animal attractions in Shropshire are being urged to take precautions to ensure the health and safety of their children. While these attractions are popular with parents and children, they also present certain health risks, particularly concerning infectious diseases that can be transmitted from animals.
The most common diseases linked to animal contact at such attractions include cryptosporidium parvum, E. coli O157, and salmonella. These bacteria reside in the gut of animals, and infection can occur through direct contact with animals or surfaces contaminated by animal droppings. Children are at particular risk of contracting these infections if they touch animals and then touch their faces or put their fingers in their mouths without properly washing their hands. Even a small number of these bacteria can lead to illness.
To help ensure a safe and healthy visit, parents and guardians are advised to follow these guidelines:
Hand Hygiene: Children should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water:
- After handling animals.
- Before eating.
- Before and after using play equipment.
- After using the toilet.
- Before leaving the site.
Alcohol gels and sanitizing wipes are not effective against cryptosporidium, so hand washing with soap and running water is crucial.
Avoid Putting Objects in Mouth: Children should refrain from sucking their fingers or placing pens, pencils, crayons, or other items in their mouths.
Injury Precautions: Ensure that any cuts or grazes on children’s hands are covered with waterproof bandages to prevent exposure to harmful bacteria.
Animal Interaction: Do not kiss animals, as this can increase the risk of contamination.
Eating Guidelines:
Only eat food brought from home or food purchased from designated areas within the attraction.
Avoid eating food that has fallen to the ground.
Never taste food intended for animals.
Children should not eat, drink, or chew anything outside the designated eating areas.
Footwear and Cleanliness:
It’s advisable to avoid wearing open-toed shoes.
Clean shoes and pram wheels before leaving the site, and ensure children wash their hands afterward.
Clothing Care: Wash any clothing that has been in contact with animals at 40°C or higher once home.
Restricted Areas and Equipment: Visitors should not touch farm tools (e.g., spades, forks) or climb on fences, gates, or animal pens. These may be contaminated with animal waste. Always follow the instructions given by site staff and avoid wandering into unsupervised or prohibited areas.
Time for Hand Washing: Allocate plenty of time for hand washing before leaving the site to avoid rushing and ensure proper hygiene.
In the event that anyone feels unwell after visiting a farm, especially within two weeks of the visit, it is crucial to contact a GP or call NHS 111. Symptoms like diarrhoea or vomiting could indicate an infection, and if anyone experiences bloody diarrhoea, immediate medical attention should be sought.
Anyone who has been sick after a farm visit should stay home from work, school, or nursery until they have been symptom-free for at least two days. However, additional medical tests may be needed to ensure complete recovery and prevent the spread of infection, particularly for those who work in food handling, with young children, or with vulnerable individuals. Before returning to work or school, these individuals should consult with their GP or local health protection team.
By following these guidelines, families can help minimize the risk of infection and ensure a fun, safe experience at animal attractions this Easter.
