Hand Washing At Petting Zoo Keeps Kids Healthy

Autumn is synonymous with apple picking, pumpkin picking and visits to farms that have petting zoos and hay rides. In the past, there have been outbreaks of E. coli infections associated with handling animals at petting zoos, agricultural/state fairs, farms, etc. To reduce the risk of infection, visitors to petting zoos, fairs and similar settings should take simple steps such as washing their hands after touching animals or spending time in areas where animals are housed or exhibited. Although most places with petting zoos provide both hand washing and hand sanitizers, parents and grandparents should carry along hand sanitizers just in case.

Also, avoid bringing in items that would go into babies and children ,, s mouths, such as baby bottles, pacifiers, spill-proof cups and infant toys to petting areas. This will decrease the chances of bacteria and other organisms of being transmitted from animals to children.

"The most important rules to follow when visiting the petting farm are to wash your hands, make sure the animals don't kiss your face, and keep your children's fingers out of their mouths," said Herbert Yardley, Health Officer/Director, Sussex County Division of Health.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), any person who visits a petting farm should take the following precautions:

* Ensure all open wounds are properly covered before entering a petting farm;

* Make sure that children or adults do not have face-to-face contact with the animals;

* Do not wipe hands on clothing while in the farm; and

* Hands should be washed thoroughly with soap for at least 20 seconds after leaving the farm.