Going to meet farm animals is a fun and educational outing that appeals to children. Certain simple precautions are still to be taken into consideration, recall the experts.
Educational farms and animal parks are attracting more and more families. For children, this is often an opportunity to approach animals that they only see in books or in cartoons. From an early age, these visits offer direct contact with nature, stimulate curiosity and awaken the senses. Nevertheless, visiting a farm requires a minimum of vigilance, especially with young children.
Indeed, without really realizing it, parents exhibit their children at several risks often underestimated. Because one of the most devious dangers is mostly ignored. And for good reason: young and old love contact, and if they see an adorable goat approaching them, they tend to want to caress her to say hello. However, a simple caress can represent a risk in those under 5, because they constantly put their hands in their mouths.
According to the magazine 60 million consumers, the main danger comes from bacteria present on the skin or in the excrement of certain animals. In particular, the bacteria Escherichia coli, also called E. coli, which can cause serious digestive disorders. “”Children are the most exposed to severe forms of infection“, warns the magazine, which recalls that the simple contact with soiled surfaces, followed by a handing from hand to mouth, may be enough to cause contamination.
For these outings to remain pleasant and without consequences, some simple gestures are essential. First, avoid any direct contact with animals for the youngest. Then, make sure that the children carefully wash their hands after each interaction, even minimal. It is also advisable to provide wipes or hydroalcoholic gel in the absence of a water point. Finally, it is better to avoid consuming foods on site or allowing children to carry their hands in their mouths before being washed. As 60 million consumers recalls, “Respect for simple hygiene rules makes it possible to considerably limit risks”.
