Suspected parasite infection outbreak as 28 people fall ill after feeding animals

At least 28 people have fallen ill after feeding and petting at a in Wales. Public Health is investigating a suspected outbreak of cryptosporidium - sometimes called crypto - in those who attended calf and lamb feeding and petting sessions at Cowbridge Shop at Marlborough Grange Farm, Cowbridge.

Cryptosporidium is a gastrointestinal infection that comes from parasites living in the faeces of infected animals - but it can cause illness in humans too. Symptoms may include diarrhoea, stomach pains or cramps and nausea or vomiting. Marlborough Grange Farm said in a short statement that it would be closing its petting and feeding experiences due to "unforeseen circumstances".

It also apologised to people who had booked, adding a full refund could be obtained - but the post has since been removed from its page, reports.

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Public Health Wales confirmed the farm has now voluntarily stopped these activities and is fully cooperating with the investigation. 

Those struck down with cryptosporidium can be left with a host of unpleasant symptoms, including watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, a mild fever and weight loss. 

These symptoms usually begin two to 10 days after exposure and can last for up to two weeks. Children and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to infection.

Su Mably, Consultant in Health Protection at Public Health Wales, has advised anyone who has visited the farm and is now experiencing symptoms to contact their GP. "We are working closely with partners to investigate these cases and to understand if there is a wider risk to the public," he said.

Su Mably, PHW consultant in health protection, said: "We are working closely with partners to investigate these cases and to understand if there is a wider risk to the public. We would advise anyone who has visited the farm, particularly those who attended feeding or petting sessions, and who is now experiencing symptoms to contact their GP."

Public Health Wales has reminded people to follow good hygiene practices when visiting farms, including:

• Washing hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after touching animals.
• Avoiding food and drink during animal contact
• Supervising children at all times
• Cleaning boots and shoes after visiting

Pregnant women should avoid newborn lambs during lambing season, it added. The has contacted Cowbridge Farm Shop for comment.