Health warning issued to families visiting farms over half term

During the half term break and throughout the summer many families enjoy a day out at the farm, and there are plenty across Wales to choose from. Whilst it is a nice way to be amongst nature and a chance for children to pet the animals, it does come with health risks. As farm attractions begin to get busy for the season, the UK Health Security Agency has urged parents to stay safe from E.coli and Dr Rachael Hornigold has shared how you can protect yourself and your little ones during your visit. E. coli (Escherichia coli) is a type of bacteria that can be found in the intestines of animals and can cause serious illness in humans. Stay informed on the latest health news by signing up to our newsletter here Farm animals can be a source of germs (bacteria, viruses, and parasites) that can be passed from animals to humans from the animal's body, its poo, or from areas where animals have recently been. If you get the germs on your hands, you could accidentally pass them to your mouth. Children, pregnant people and those with reduced immunity are more likely to become seriously ill from E. coli. Dr Rachael Hornigold, a consultant in health protection, has given the following advice for families visiting farms this summer: Make sure that you wash your hands regularly with warm water and soap - particularly after you have touched any animals and before you eat and drink If you or your child becomes unwell within two weeks of a farm visit, contact NHS 111 Symptoms of E. coli infection include diarrhoea, stomach cramps and occasionally fever. Around 50% of people will also have bloody diarrhoea. Often symptoms are presented three to four days after someone is infected but they can start up to two weeks after and last for a fortnight. The UKHSA has also given a list of things you should not do when visiting a farm: do not touch your face or put your fingers in your mouth while petting animals or walking around the farm do not kiss farm animals or allow children to put their faces close to animals do not eat or drink while touching animals or walking around the farm - this includes not eating sweets, crisps or chewing gum do not eat anything that has fallen on the floor do not use gels or wipes instead of washing hands with soap and water - gels and wipes do not remove all germs found in dirt do not drink raw milk or eat raw milk products (such as cream) sold on the farm if you are pregnant, elderly or have a weakened immune system do not give raw milk products to young children