More than 80 people could sue, after Worcestershire farm visit
Gannow Farm has been closed since people became unwell after visiting
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is continuing to investigate following reports of people becoming unwell after attending a farm in Worcestershire.
Gannow Farm in Inkberrow, is currently closed, after a number of visitors through the Easter holidays were confirmed as having cryptosporidium - a parasitic infection.
More than 80 adults and children are now seeking legal advice, with some still suffering from the gastric illness.
Mum Emma Cleverley from Birmingham, says her 14-year-old daughter Sophie got ill a few days after visiting the place, before later being diagnosed with cryptosporidium.
She says it forced her to take time off school, and is still taking medication for it.
Head of the specialist public health team at Irwin Mitchell, Jatinder Paul, who is supporting the families, said: “It’s deeply concerning that over 80 people have now come forward, all with similar stories to tell of being diagnosed with cryptosporidium following their visit.
“Cryptosporidium is known to cause gastrointestinal illness and can be a serious condition for many vulnerable groups, including children and older people.
“It’s vital that people take the proper precautions to protect themselves and their families from the risk of infection."
UKHSA and Wychavon District Council are looking into the reports, after it affected adults and children as young as one-year-old.
Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA West Midlands, Dr Naveed Syed, said: “We are investigating reports of people being sick after visiting Gannow Farm over the Easter holidays.
"Visiting an open farm is a fun day out, particularly for children, but contact with farm animals carries a small risk of infection because of the bugs they carry.
"While the number of people who become ill is normally quite small, many cases could be avoided by practising good hand hygiene."
In a statement Gannow Farm said: "Our thoughts are with the families and children who have been ill in this difficult time.
"We have temporarily closed Gannow Farm, and we are currently working closely with The UK Health Security Agency and our insurers and are unable to comment any further until the investigation is concluded."