Advice for visitors
Visiting a farm is a fun and educational experience for families and schools. It helps people learn about the environment and rural life. But farm animals can carry germs that make people ill.
What you need to know
- farm visits can never be completely risk-free
- animals can carry bugs that cause illness
- common illnesses include cryptosporidiosis and E. coli (STEC)
- every year, some people in the Highlands become ill after contact with animals
How to reduce the risk
Do:
- cover cuts and grazes on children’s hands with waterproof dressings
- wash your hands after touching animals, fences or surfaces in animal areas
- wash your hands before eating or drinking
- wash your hands with liquid soap and warm water after touching animals or being in animal areas
- dry hands with paper towels
- clean boots or shoes and pushchair wheels after leaving animal areas
- keep prams and toys out of animal areas
- eat and drink in picnic areas or cafes only
- supervise children closely when washing hands
Do not:
- put hands on faces or fingers in mouths while near animals
- kiss animals or put your face close to them
- eat or drink near animals or walking round the farm
- eat sweets, crisps or chew gum near animals
- taste or eat animal feed
- eat anything that has fallen on the floor
- use hand wipes or gels instead of washing hands
If someone becomes ill
- contact your GP or NHS 24 if anyone is sick or has diarrhoea after a farm visit
- seek emergency help if a child has bloody diarrhoea
Extra advice for pregnant women
Pregnant women should avoid close contact with animals giving birth. This includes sheep, cattle and goats. Risks are rare but can harm you and your baby.
To avoid the possible risk of infection:
- do not help animals give birth
- avoid contact with newborn animals, afterbirth or bedding
- avoid handling clothes or boots that may be contaminated
- make sure anyone who has attended lambing or calving washes thoroughly and uses protective equipment