Palo Alto, CA
A 64-year-old male asked:
Children at san diego county fair fell ill with e.coli after petting animals there. how dangerous are petting zoos? how to tell if a petting zoo is safe?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. James Fergusonanswered
Pediatrics 48 years experience
You don't: E.coli is a family of germ strains that are present in the digestive system of all animals. A strain dangerous to humans may or may not be present in the system of & then contaminate the fur of any animal. Any attendance at such an event should avoid petting or have hand washing/sanitizing available after any such contact. Such situations are uncommon, but do occur & are hardly predictable.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
160 viewsReviewed Feb 17, 2022
Dr. Amrita Dosanjhanswered
Pediatric Allergy and Asthma 38 years experience
It is best to wash hands and use sanitizer after contact with the animals. Children though may put their hands in mouths and this can lead to infection. Avoid eating at the petting zoo, and watch for signs of diarrhea, fever and vomting.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Answered Feb 17, 2022
Last updated Feb 17, 2022
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
$44 video appointments with $19/month membership*
*Billed $57 every 3 months. Cancel anytime.
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.