The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is following reports of people becoming unwell with diarrhoea and vomiting after visiting Gannow Farm in Inkberrow, Worcestershire.
A number of visitors to the farm were confirmed as having cryptosporidiosis and others have reported sickness which may be consistent with cryptosporidium infection.
The infection is carried in the gut of many farm animals and is particularly common during lambing season.
In most cases the symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhoea go after a few days. However, in some cases, cryptosporidiosis can be unpleasant with diarrhoea lasting for several weeks.
Gannow farm has taken the decision to close to the public for the remainder of 2024.
The UKHSA West Midlands is following up on the reports alongside the Worcestershire County Council, Worcestershire Regulatory Services and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Consultant in health protection at UKHSA West Midlands, Dr Naveed Syed, said: “We are investigating reports of people being sick after visiting Gannow Farm over the Easter holidays.
“Samples from some affected individuals have gone off for analysis and Worcestershire Regulatory Services are also taking environmental samples from the farm.
Infections from farm animals
Syed said, while visiting an open farm is a fun day out for children, contact with farm animals carries a small risk of infection because of the bugs they carry.
“While the number of people who become ill is normally quite small, many cases could be avoided by practising good hand hygiene,” he said.
“It is important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water and dry them after touching animals or any surfaces that could be contaminated by animal poo; and before eating, drinking, chewing gum or preparing food.
“If possible, people should clean shoes and pushchair wheels before leaving the farm and wash hands immediately after cleaning is complete.
“Hand sanitising gels will not kill crypto, so proper handwashing is essential when visiting an animal attraction or country park.”
Advice
While there is no particular treatment for Cryptosporidiosis, the UKHSA has advice to prevent the spread of the infection.
Tips from the UKHSA include:
- Drink plenty of fluids to keep hydrated;
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and hot water after going to the toilet, changing nappies or handling soiled fabrics;
- Handwashing is crucial before preparing food, eating, drinking and chewing gum;
- Clean toilet seats, flush handles, basins and taps after use;
- Do not to share towels with other household members;
- Only return to work or school until you have had no symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting for 48 hours;
- Do not to go swimming in swimming pools or open water until you have been free of symptoms for 14 days.
“If symptoms continue, ask for a telephone consultation with your family doctor – try to avoid visiting your GP surgery or local A&E as you may pass the infection on to others,” the UKHSA said.
