An inquiry has been initiated following the emergence of a parasite infection among 28 individuals who participated in calf and lamb feeding and petting activities at a farm. Public Health Wales, in collaboration with Cardiff and Vale health Board, Vale of Glamorgan Council, and Shared Regulatory Services, is examining instances of cryptosporidium infection in individuals who frequented Cowbridge Farm Shop at Marlborough Grange Farm in Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan. Cryptosporidium is a parasite known to cause gastrointestinal illness, often associated with interacting with animals, especially young farm animals. Public Health Wales revealed that the farm shop had voluntarily ceased the feeding and petting sessions and was fully cooperating with the investigation.
Following a now-deleted social media post, the farm team declared the closure of the feeding experiences “due to unforeseen circumstances” and expressed regret to those who had made reservations, offering a complete refund if requested. Su Mably, a Public Health Wales consultant in health protection, stated, “We, along with our partners, are actively investigating these cases to determine if there is a broader risk to the public. We recommend that individuals who have visited the farm, particularly those who participated in feeding or petting activities and are now displaying symptoms, reach out to their GP.” Common symptoms of cryptosporidium infection include watery diarrhea, stomach pains, nausea, mild fever, and weight loss. “Symptoms usually manifest between two and 10 days post exposure to the parasite and can persist for up to two weeks,” Ms. Mably continued, emphasizing that young children and individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly at risk.
Public Health Wales also emphasized the importance of practicing good hygiene when visiting farms, such as washing hands after handling animals, refraining from consuming food or beverages on the premises, taking off and leaving footwear upon exiting, and closely supervising young children. Councillor Ruba Sivagnanam, Vale of Glamorgan council’s cabinet member for community engagement, equalities, and regulatory services, acknowledged the infection cases and stated that the council was collaborating with the business to prevent any further instances of illness
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