
Rise in cryptosporidium cases linked to Cowbridge Farm
Cryptosporidium is a parasite that can cause gastrointestinal illness, often associated with contact with animals, especially young farm animals such as calves and lambs.
People that have fallen sick with the illness likely contracted it whilst bottle feeding lambs at the farm.
Symptoms typically include watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting, which can last for several days to weeks.
Public Health Wales have now confirmed more cases have been liked to the farm with figures expected to rise.
Public Health Wales said: 'A second meeting of the multi-agency Outbreak Control Team was held today (2 May) to assess the ongoing outbreak of Cryptosporidium linked to visits to Cowbridge Farm Shop, Marlborough Grange Farm, Cross Ways, Cowbridge CF71 7LJ.
'The number of confirmed cases has now reached 47. Due to the incubation period of the infection, we expect that this number may increase in the coming weeks.
'The Outbreak Control Team continues to work closely with the premises to investigate this outbreak. The farm has voluntarily ceased all public animal feeding activities and is cooperating with the investigation.'
Su Mably, Consultant in Health protection for Public Health Wales said:
'We are continuing to investigate this outbreak with our partners. While the infection is usually mild and self-limiting, it can be more serious in young children or people with weakened immune systems. We urge anyone who visited the farm and is feeling unwell to contact their GP or NHS 111. Practising good hygiene is the best way to protect yourself and others.'
Cowbridge Farm Shop refused to comment at this time.

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