Pregnant women have been advised to avoid farm animals which are giving birth on the grounds that these animals may carry infection which could harm the health of both the mother and unborn child.

Sheep, goats and cattle have been known to carry infections while giving birth which can be detrimental to pregnant women so the Welsh government have issue a warning which advised avoiding contact with animals during this time.

Eager to reassure mums-to-be that risks may be low, officials are still eager to highlight possible issues,with chief Veterinary Officer Professor Christianne Glossop saying: "Although the number of human pregnancies affected by contact with an infected animal is extremely small, it is important that pregnant women are aware of the potential risks and take appropriate precautions."

Pregnant women are advised to avoid contact with newly born or aborted lambs, calves or kids. They are also advised to avoid handling clothes or materials which came into contact with the animals who gave birth and it is recommended that partners who have come into contact with these animals exercise proper caution and ensure equipment and clothing have been cleaned in order to avoid contamination.

If any pregnant woman has been exposed to these conditions and is experiencing fever or flu-like symptoms, they are advised to seek medical attention.

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