MORE than 80 people are seeking legal action after falling seriously ill with an animal parasite at a kids' petting farm. Parents and children were left with severe gastric sickness following a visit to Gannow Farm in Worcestershire over the Easter holidays. They are thought to have contracted cryptosporidium - a microscopic parasite that can cause an infection called cryptosporidiosis.
Many of those affected were unwell with vomiting and diarrhoea for several weeks, and some remain in hospital. The attraction, which offers cuddles with lambs and calves, is temporarily closed. Last month it emerged that 20 visitors had contacted public health lawyers asking them to investigate their case following their ordeals.
Over 80 people have since come forward after they also fell poorly following a trip to the farm, near Redditch, during March and April. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Wychavon District Council have also launched a probe. One of the latest victims to come forward is a teenager who was forced to take time off school and lost over a stone in weight.
Sophie Enright, 14, from Hollywood, Birmingham , now fears her exam results will suffer as a result. The schoolgirl visited the farm with her mum Emma Cleverley, 38, on April 3 and became ill with diarrhoea, stomach cramps and vomiting by April 9. As her daughter's condition deteriorated, Emma called her GP, who said she was the fourth person he'd seen that day with the same symptoms after visiting the farm.
Sophie.
