Cryptosporidium Outbreak Sickens Hundreds at Isle of Wight Farm Event

In 2023, a cryptosporidium outbreak at a baby animal bottle-feeding event on the Isle of Wight has led to a hefty fine for the farm owner. More than 260 people, over half of them children, were infected with the parasite that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea. Some of the young victims even required hospitalization.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reported that the outbreak originated from goat kids and lambs at Hazelgrove Farm near Ryde. The ticketed event in April and May of 2023 allowed visitors to feed bottles of milk to the animals in pens. However, children were observed kissing the visibly contaminated animals, leading to the widespread transmission of cryptosporidium.

As a result, 60-year-old farm owner Sharon Wheeler was fined £8,000 and ordered to pay an additional £12,728 in fees after pleading guilty to failing to ensure public safety. The HSE stated that several victims continue to suffer lasting gastrointestinal issues, with some requiring multiple hospital stays throughout 2024. The traumatic experience has also left many families reluctant to visit farm animals again.

The cryptosporidium parasite can be found in the intestines and feces of infected humans and animals. Those who handle infected livestock or their waste are particularly at risk, especially young children. Infections typically last around two weeks, according to the UK Health Security Agency.