Summary
Health officials have warned people to avoid handling lambs during farm visits after a parasite outbreak sickened over 80 people last year. Cryptosporidiosis, a stomach infection caused by the cryptosporidium parasite, has been linked to farm animals, and officials stress the importance of good hygiene to prevent infections.
Key Facts
- Cryptosporidiosis is a stomach infection that can cause severe diarrhoea and fever.
- Over 80 people fell sick from this infection after visiting a petting farm in April 2025.
- Michael, a child who became ill, spent four days in the hospital with severe symptoms.
- More than 525 cases of cryptosporidium were confirmed last year in Wales alone.
- The infection is particularly serious for young children and vulnerable people.
- After the outbreak, the farm involved stopped petting sessions and cooperated with the investigation.
- Health officials advise against touching, holding, or cuddling lambs to reduce infection risk.
- Washing hands thoroughly with warm water after farm visits is strongly recommended.
