Northern Ireland's Department of Health has issued an advice that pregnant women should avoid contact with animals that are birthing, or that have just given birth.
Pregnant women coming in contact with sheep or other farm animals that are giving birth may have a risk of acquiring an infectious disease from pregnant livestock. Some of the diseases are likely to have serious consequences including abortion in humans.
Recommendations for pregnant women include:
- Do not assist ewes, cows or goats during the process of birthing.
- Prevent contact with aborted or new-born animal offspring and with afterbirths (placenta and birthing fluids) and the materials contaminated by them (e.g. bedding).
- Do not handle clothing, footwear or any materials that may have come into contact with animals that have recently delivered, their offspring or afterbirths.
- Ensure that contacts or partners who have attended animal birthing have taken necessary precautions for health and hygiene.
Pregnant women should be advised to seek prompt medical attention if they experience fever or flu-like symptoms, or if they have any suspicion of having acquired infection from a farm environment.
Chief Medical Officer for Northern Ireland, Dr. Michael McBride, said: "Although reports of these infections are extremely rare, it is imperative that pregnant women are aware of the potential risks and take appropriate precautions."
