Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council wishes to remind its residents of the simple steps they can take to ensure they enjoy visits to farms and petting zoos safely.
The Borough Council is urging anyone planning a trip to a farm or country park to remember the importance of thoroughly and frequently washing hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after removing dirty shoes, to avoid getting bugs that could make them seriously ill. Young children should always be supervised when washing their hands, as they are more at risk of serious illness.
At this time of year, there is typically an increase in the number of gastro-intestinal infections such as cryptosporidium and E. coli associated with activities such as visits to farms and country parks. These infections can cause diarrhoea and stomach pains, and in serious cases, they can lead to severe illness.
People mainly get infected by touching animals in petting and feeding areas or by coming into contact with animal droppings or contaminated surfaces in the surrounding area where animals are kept.
These harmful bacteria can get accidentally passed to your mouth by putting hands on faces or fingers in mouths before washing them thoroughly. It only takes a small number of bacteria to cause infection, and once infected, you can pass the bugs on to other people, who may also become ill.
Head of Safety and Environmental Health at Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, Rachel Fleeson, said:
“As the weather gets warmer and people look to venture to animal attractions to enjoy a day out, we want to make sure that everyone can enjoy these facilities as safely as possible.
“Several bugs that cause illness can be passed on to humans through contact with animals and their surroundings, some of which can be particularly serious for children or pregnant women.
“Therefore, we urge people to thoroughly wash hands with soap and warm water after touching any animals and before eating or drinking to reduce the risk of infection.
“Do not use gels or wipes instead of soap and water, as these are not a substitute for washing your hands.
"Follow the simple rules listed below to keep your children and families safe.”
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What to do when visiting a farm Following the simple rules listed below will help to keep you and your children safe from infections that may be found on open farms. Pregnant women need to take particular care, as infections acquired from animals can be harmful to them and their unborn baby.
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