Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Release Date:          August 15, 2005            Kill Date:  September 15, 2005                                       

Contact Person:     Gary Johnson, MD
                                    Medical Director

                                     Genesee County Health Department

Phone:                      (810) 257-3155

RE:                             Free Handwashing Signs for Community Petting Zoos

The Genesee County Health Department is offering free signs for community fairs and festivals that have farm animal petting zoos.  The signs encourage visitors to wash their hands after exiting the exhibits. Handwashing reduces the risk of contracting diseases that animals can sometimes carry, such as E. coli, Salmonella and a number of other infections.

Health officials suggest these tips on how to enjoy petting zoos without getting sick:

• Don't kiss the animals, and limit your contact with them and their surroundings, such as fencing, stalls and gates, because manure may be present on their body and in their environment.
• Supervise young children and advise them to keep their hands out of their mouths.
• Don't take food or drink into the animal area.
• Wash your hands as soon as you exit the animal area, and help young children wash their hands properly. Washing with soap and warm water is best; use antibacterial towelettes or lotion if handwashing facilities are not available.
• Clean your shoes when you return home and after doing so wash your hands.
• Call your doctor if you or your children get sick with stomach cramps, vomiting or diarrhea within a week of visiting a petting zoo. Tell the doctor you were around farm animals.

Community events with petting zoos can obtain the free handwashing signs by calling the Genesee County Health Department at 810-257-3612 or by downloading them here.