Wales Warns: Skip Lamb Cuddles, Stay Safe on Farm Visits

On March 25, health officials and whales are warning families to skip close contact with

lambs during spring farm visits after a cryptospiridium.

Outbreak sickened over 80 people last year.

The parasite causes nasty stomach bugs like severe diarrhea, vomiting, and fever,

hitting young kids hardest. Last year alone, labs confirmed 525 cases with 35% in children under 10.

The trouble started at a petting farm in the Vale of Glamorgan in April 2025,

where visitors handled young animals. One four year old boy ended up in the hospital for four

days with a high fever and constant need for fluids during a family trip abroad. Public

health whales linked it to the farm, which quickly paused its animal sessions and worked with investigators.

Parents like the boy's father describe it as a terrifying ordeal, stressing that even

thorough handwashing and clothing changes didn't prevent. Infection. They call farm petting an

unnecessary gamble for kids, since symptoms can linger and risks are higher around newborns

carrying germs. Now, ahead of landing season, officials list key steps to stay safe,

skip picking up or cuddling lambs, wash hands with soap and warm water after any.

Contact. Watch kids closely and eat only in clean spots.

Some farms already follow strict rules, like viewing pins and post-touch hygiene stations,

earning praise for balancing fun with protection. If diarrhea or vomiting hits within two weeks

of a farm outing, see a doctor or call 1-1-1. Staying home until symptom free for 48 hours

helps stop the spread, letting everyone enjoy spring safely.