Sixteen people fall ill after outbreak of contagious disease at lamb feeding

Health officials have confirmed 16 people have fallen ill after an outbreak of cryptosporidiosis at a popular petting zoo near Edinburgh.

NHS Lothian announced that all cases of cryptosporidiosis have been traced to a lamb feeding experience at Craigies Farm near South Queensferry.

The outbreak was initially reported to have impacted six individuals, including both adults and children.

Among those affected was a local mother who attended with her two children.

She required hospital treatment after suffering symptoms for nearly a fortnight following her visit on April 15.

The lamb feeding activity, which drew families to the farm during the spring season, finished its scheduled run on May 4.

Cryptosporidiosis is caused by a parasite that can be present in the intestines and waste of infected animals.

The illness is highly contagious and typically produces severe watery diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, mild fever and reduced appetite.

These symptoms can result in dehydration and weight loss if left untreated.

Children between one and five years old are most susceptible to the infection. Those who work with livestock or come into contact with animal faeces also face elevated risk.

Health authorities note that cases of the parasitic disease tend to increase during spring months.

The infection can be contracted through direct contact with animals or by touching surfaces such as farm gates, fencing and buildings where livestock have been housed.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

• Cruise ship with hantavirus outbreak to sail to Canary Islands as three people evacuated
• Two evacuated from cruise ship amid hantavirus outbreak as WHO probes possible onboard transmission
• Health officials issue fresh update on Kent meningitis outbreak as separate case sees baby admitted to hospital

Dr Graham Mackenzie, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at NHS Lothian and the East Region Health Protection Service, said: "We are aware of 16 confirmed cases with links to a visitor attraction in Lothian, and they are being closely monitored.

"Investigations are continuing, and we are working closely with colleagues in hospital and primary care to ensure that if any further cases arise, they receive appropriate and timely care."

Dr Mackenzie emphasised that thorough handwashing remains the most effective preventive measure after any contact with animals or the areas where they are kept.

The farm has confirmed they are aware of the outbreak and are working with health officials.

John Sinclair, owner of Craigies Farm, said: "We are aware of a small number of visitors who have reported illness following visits to the farm and we take this very seriously.

"Cryptosporidiosis is a recognised, seasonal infection associated with animal contact environments, particularly in young lambs, and cases do occur each year across the UK.

"Our lamb feeding experience ran as planned and concluded on May 4. We have been working closely with the Edinburgh environmental health team, who have visited the farm and are satisfied with the controls, procedures and hygiene measures in place. We continue to follow all guidance provided.

"We also work alongside the National Farm Attractions Network, a UK-wide organisation that supports farms and environmental health teams with best practice guidance to ensure these types of experiences can operate as safely as possible."