Cryptosporidium outbreak in Wales rises to 81
In a follow-up on the cryptosporidium outbreak linked to visits to Cowbridge Farm Shop, Marlborough Grange Farm, Cross Ways, Cowbridge, Wales, health officials reported seven new cases, bringing the outbreak total to 81 confirmed cases of the parasitic disease. 16 people required hospitalization for their illness.
The farm voluntarily stopped all public animal feeding activities on 29 April and has continued to support the investigation.
Cryptosporidium is a parasite that can cause gastrointestinal illness, often associated with contact with animals, especially young farm animals such as calves and lambs. Public Health experts are warning those who have come into contact with infected cases to take extra care to avoid passing the infection onto others.
Beverley Griggs, Consultant in Health Protection for Public Health Wales said: “We are continuing to work with our partners to investigate this outbreak and to reduce the risk of further transmission. Cryptosporidium infection often clears up without treatment but, it can be more serious for young children and people with weakened immune systems.
“We advise anyone who visited the farm and is experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain or nausea to contact their GP or call NHS 111 Wales.
“It is also important to be aware that this infection can be passed from person to person, if you begin to experience these symptoms after contact with someone has experienced them after visiting the farm, you should also contact your GP or NHS 111 Wales. Good hand hygiene at home, especially before eating or preparing food, is essential in helping to stop the spread.”