Post by joe on Aug 12, 2010 12:20:39 GMT
This information has an emphasis on children's farms, however the same risks apply when out walking. Petting animals in fields by paths can pick up infections....
Published Thursday 12th August 10
Helpful hand washing hints
Avoid infection on farm visits - wash your hands!
Visiting a children's farm to see and stroke the animals is often a highlight for children during the school holidays. According to Environmental Health staff at the Borough Council, a little extra attention to hand washing will minimise the risk of picking up infections from the animals.
Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with any farm animals is essential. Gels or wipes will not remove all bacteria, such as E.coli 0157, advise the team. Other tips include supervising children to ensure they wash and dry hands thoroughly, not eating snacks or drinks whilst walking round the farm and restricting eating just to picnic areas or cafes. Avoid animal faeces, which can easily get onto shoes, clothing or buggy wheels and spread bacteria onto hands.
Steve Whiles, Environmental Health Manager said:
" These are just a few simple precautions contained in a leaflet produced by the Department of Health, Defra and the Health Protection Agency, which we've distributed to our One Stop Shop,. libraries, leisure centres, GP surgeries and Childrens' Farms. The advice is designed to ensure that children and families can make the most of an enjoyable day out without suffering any tummy upsets afterwards or possibly serious illnesses associated with E.coli 0157. "
If anyone has sickness or diarrhoea within two weeks of visiting a farm, the advice is to contact your GP or ring NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
Further information on E.coli is available on the Health Protection Agency website at www.hpa.org.uk
Published Thursday 12th August 10
Helpful hand washing hints
Avoid infection on farm visits - wash your hands!
Visiting a children's farm to see and stroke the animals is often a highlight for children during the school holidays. According to Environmental Health staff at the Borough Council, a little extra attention to hand washing will minimise the risk of picking up infections from the animals.
Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with any farm animals is essential. Gels or wipes will not remove all bacteria, such as E.coli 0157, advise the team. Other tips include supervising children to ensure they wash and dry hands thoroughly, not eating snacks or drinks whilst walking round the farm and restricting eating just to picnic areas or cafes. Avoid animal faeces, which can easily get onto shoes, clothing or buggy wheels and spread bacteria onto hands.
Steve Whiles, Environmental Health Manager said:
" These are just a few simple precautions contained in a leaflet produced by the Department of Health, Defra and the Health Protection Agency, which we've distributed to our One Stop Shop,. libraries, leisure centres, GP surgeries and Childrens' Farms. The advice is designed to ensure that children and families can make the most of an enjoyable day out without suffering any tummy upsets afterwards or possibly serious illnesses associated with E.coli 0157. "
If anyone has sickness or diarrhoea within two weeks of visiting a farm, the advice is to contact your GP or ring NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
Further information on E.coli is available on the Health Protection Agency website at www.hpa.org.uk