Over the past month Environmental Health Officers from DEFA’s Environment Directorate have been investigating cases of Cryptosporidium and Campylobacter infections connected to farms across the Island thought to be associated with the handling of livestock whilst lambing.
Both organisms are associated with the digestive tract of humans and animals and can be spread by direct or indirect contact with faeces or by drinking water contaminated with faeces. Infection typically causes diarrhoea with nausea and vomiting also associated with Camplyobacter infections.
Ivan Bratty, the Department’s Food Safety Manager stated “These recent cases serve as a timely reminder of the importance of thorough hand washing after handling livestock and before preparing or handling food to prevent infection and the spread of disease in the community. It is also important for anyone suffering from diarrhoea to avoid swimming pools as Cryptosporidium can survive in chlorinated water”.
Researching your Manx family history can be a very interesting and rewarding hobby. Trace your roots in the Isle of Man with our helpful of guide.
