Pregnant women should avoid close contact with sheep during the lambing season, the Government advised today.

The

Department of Health, Defra and the Health and Safety Executive have

advised that pregnant women who come into close contact with sheep

during lambing may risk their own health, and that of their unborn

child, from infections that can occur in some ewes.

Although

these infections are uncommon, and the number of human pregnancies

affected by contact with sheep is extremely small, it is important that

pregnant women are aware of the potential risks and take appropriate

precautions.

To avoid the possible risk of infection, pregnant women are advised that they should:

            -           not help to lamb or milk ewes;

           

-           avoid contact with aborted or new-born lambs or with the

afterbirth, birthing fluids or materials (e.g. bedding) contaminated by

such birth products;

-       avoid handling (including washing)

clothing, boots or any materials that may have come into contact with

ewes, lambs or afterbirth;

-       ensure partners attending

lambing ewes take appropriate health and hygiene precautions, including

the wearing of personal protective equipment and adequate washing to

remove any potential contamination.

Pregnant women should seek

medical advice if they experience fever or influenza-like symptoms, or

if concerned that they could have acquired infection from a farm

environment.

Farmers have a responsibility to minimise the risks

to pregnant women, including members of their family, the public and

professional staff visiting farms.