An investigation has been launched after more than 30 people fell ill following a visit to a farm in Leeds.
The incident which happened at Swithens Farm, Rothwell, saw 29 cases of cryptosporidiosis, a disease caused by a parasite that causes vomiting and diarrhoea, and two cases of E. Coli 0157.
E. coli can cause severe stomach pain and bloody diarrhoea and even affect kidney function.
According to reports, Public Health England closed the farm while it conducted investigations but it has since reopened, with the owners insisting “every effort is being taken to ensure that visitors are not put at risk”.
People can be infected with either E.Coli or cryptosporidiosis after being in contact with an animal carrying the parasites.
Explaining how touching farm animals naturally carry these parasites, Dr Mike Gent, consultant in communicable disease control with Public Health England, told the Yorkshire Post: “It’s really important when visiting these sorts of attractions to wash your hands thoroughly using soap and water after you have been in contact with animals and especially before eating or drinking anything.”
“People may be tempted to use hand gels and wipes during a farm visit and after touching animals but, although they remove visible dirt and contamination, they may not be effective in removing the germs found on farms.”
