Usk Coleg Gwent’s farm in Usk has been at the centre of a probe into an outbreak of cryptosporidium, a microscopic parasite that causes extreme diarrhoea.

On Thursday, Public health Wales said that three people had tested positive for cryptosporidium, and eight others were under investigation following regular attendance at the farm. Public Health Wales, Torfaen County Borough Council and Monmouthshire County Council are investigating the outbreak.

Heather Lewis, Consultant in Health Protection for Public Health Wales, said: "Cryptosporidium is a disease that is very common in young farm animals and can easily be passed to people who come into contact with those animals. It causes watery diarrhoea, stomach pain, nausea and vomiting, and can last for up to a month. Healthy people will usually make a full recovery.”
 
All the confirmed cases had direct contact with the lambs at the college farm. PHW spokesperson Heather Lewis said the investigators and Goleg Gwent are checking on others who had close contact with lambs at the farm and have advised GPs in the area to be alert to possible cases.

Lewis added, ”Good hand washing after coming into contact with farm animals is of the utmost importance in preventing infection with cryptosporidium. There is no reason for anyone to avoid visiting petting farms as long as they ensure that anyone who has touched animals, thoroughly washes their hands with hot water and soap immediately afterwards."
 
PHW advised anyone who is unwell with gastrointestinal symptoms to contact their GP or NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47. People who are unwell with vomiting or diarrhoea should not return to work or school for 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped.