They may look cute and cuddly but baby farm animals can be carriers of some nasty diseases.
Spring, in particular, is a time when germs can spread from calves and lambs, warns Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Alistair Humphrey, who says extra care is needed for people coming into contact with new-born farm animals.
"Spring is a busy time on farms and in meat works, and people are in close contact with animals," says Dr Humphreys. "Often this includes workers or visitors who don’t usually deal with animals."
Younger farmers are especially at risk, says Dr Humphreys.
“Children are the people most at risk, as they are the most difficult part of the population to get to wash their hands when feeding farm animals. Children on farms need to be reminded to wash their hands regularly."
Among the diseases that can be caught from contact with new-born animals are Yersina, tetanus, cryptosporidium, salmonella, VTEC (E.Coli 0157), campylobacter, giardia, and ringworm.
Federated Farmers say while the warning is valid, basic hygiene is advised when coming in to contact with any animal or pet in the country, not just farm animals.
"The real message here is that parents should be wary, if visiting farms, of what their children are up to and make sure they wash their hands after petting animals," says Federated Farmers health and safety spokesperson Katie Milne.
"All of this is really common really sense, and goes for children with all animals, be they on-farm or elsewhere.
"It is always good to remind people of the risks at this time of year, just as it is to remind them to be careful of mixing salads and meats during the summer BBQ season etcetera. Visitors to farms need to keep it in mind as do farming families."
3 News
source: newshub archive
