E. Coli 0157

 

Farm visits and risks

Visiting a farm is an enjoyable and educational experience for many
people, particularly children. However, such visits can never be free from
all risks. Farm animals may carry a number of infections that can be
harmful to people.

 

The bacterial infection E. coli 0157 is a particular health risk, especially
for children under five, as they are more vulnerable to this infection and
more likely to develop serious illness once infected.

 

Many animals can carry E. coli 0157 infection, even when they appear
clean and healthy. Cattle, sheep and goats are the main recognised
carriers of E. coli 0157, and it should be assumed that all of these
animals will be carrying the infection.

 

When an animal is infected with E. coli 0157 the bacteria will be in

the animal's droppings and may be on the animal's body, fences and
surfaces around the farm. Touching animals, fences and other surfaces
can thus lead to infection, as you may pick up these bacteria and
accidentally pass them to your mouth. It only takes a small number of
the bacteria to cause infection.

 

Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after you
have had contact with animals will reduce the risk of infection. Hand gels or
wipes are not a substitute for washing your hands with running water.

 

What to do when visiting a farm

Following the simple rules listed below will help to keep you and your
children safe from E. coli 0157 and other infections that may be found
on open farms. Pregnant women need to take particular care.

 

 Do not put hands on faces or fingers in mouths while petting animals
or walking round the farm.

Do not kiss farm animals nor allow children to put their faces close to animals.

 

 Do not eat or drink while touching animals or walking round 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 E. coli 0157 in dirt.

 Do wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after you have
touched animals, fences or other surfaces in animal areas.

Do wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating
or drinking.

 Do remove and clean boots or shoes that might have become soiled
and clean pushchair wheels. Then wash your hands thoroughly with
soap and water.

 Do supervise children closely to ensure that they wash their hands

thoroughly.

 Do eat and drink in picnic areas or cafés only.

 

What should I do if I feel unwell after a farm visit?

If you or anyone in your group is sick or has diarrhoea within two weeks of
visiting a farm, contact your GP or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 as soon
as possible. If you or anyone in your group, particularly a young child, has
bloody diarrhoea, seek immediate emergency medical attention.

 

Children under five should not attend school/nursery/group childcare
until they have been free of sickness or diarrhoea for two days. Tests
may be required to confirm that a child is free from infection.

 

Parents should confirm with their health professional whether it is safe
for them to return before the child returns to school or nursery.

 

Where can I get more information?

 

Further information on E.Coli 0517 is available on the health protection Agency website at: www.hpa.org.uk

 

Information for teachers on taking children on farm visits is available on the health and safety executive website at: www.hse.gov.uk