Expert tips to avoid animal-borne diseases this summer
Across the country, state fairs are in full-swing, with many offering petting zoo attractions. While it is fun to get up close and personal with animals, it is important to know that these animals can transmit diseases to humans and their pets.
Dr. Douglas Kratt, President of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) says, "It's always good to take precautions when you're in close proximity with animals because they and their environments can transfer germs that can make you or someone in your family ill."
Some examples of diseases that can be transmitted from animals to people include: Salmonella, E. coli, campylobacter, Lyme disease, West Nile Virus, and rabies. Similar to other illnesses, such as the cold and flu, if you touch your mouth or nose with germs on your hand, you could get sick. In order to prevent this, a few precautionary measures can be taken.
1. Don't eat or drink near areas with animals.
2. Park strollers outside animal barns and pens.
3. Keep hand sanitizer ready, and use it when hand-washing is not immediately available.
4. After you're done visiting animals, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, even if you didn't touch an animal directly.
Source: www.avma.org
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