Petting zoos are a wonderful place for kids to become familiar with friendly farm animals. The goats, sheep, and other animals provide an opportunity for children to get some hands-on farm experience in a safe and supervised setting. Unfortunately, it is also possible for these animals to pass infectious diseases to children. Recently three petting zoos at local county fairs in Florida were responsible for transmitting a specific strain of E. coli bacteria from the animals to children. The E. coli 0157:H7 strain infected at least 19 children and three adults after their visits to the petting zoos. The problem is that this E.coli strain can result in a severe disease (hemolytic uremic syndrome) that shuts down the kidneys and may leave victims paralyzed or blind. Other outbreaks occurred last year at petting zoos in Canada and in Raleigh, North Carolina where more than 100 people were infected.

The bacteria are contracted when children come in contact with contaminated animal feces. Typically, an animal will lie on the ground, their fur will come in contact with droppings, and children will touch the contaminated fur. These animals are not sick and testing often does not detect the bacteria. However, parents can protect children by paying close attention to cleanliness. Always wash a child's hands with soap and water or a sanitizing gel after they visit petting zoos at county fairs, state fairs, or livestock shows. A well-run petting zoo should provide hand-washing facilities.

Here are some rules to follow when your children visit a petting zoo.

• Do not take food or drinks into the animal area. That means no sippy cups, no baby bottles, no pacifiers. Likewise, no children's toys, which often make their way into children's mouths.
  
• Don't let children suck their thumbs in the animal area.
  
• Don't take strollers into the animal areas.
  
• Avoid contact with animal waste and keep your children away from equipment that may be contaminated.
  
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water as soon as you leave the animal area.