We understand how distressing it can be to suffer illness, especially when it could have been prevented. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cryptosporidium following a visit to a petting farm, this guide may help you navigate the next steps.
What Is Cryptosporidium?
Cryptosporidium is a parasite that causes cryptosporidiosis, an illness typically marked by symptoms such as:
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever
- Dehydration
- Fatigue
While symptoms usually resolve within a couple of weeks, in some cases the illness can be more severe or long lasting. This can especially be the case for young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.
How Can You Catch Cryptosporidium?
Cryptosporidium spreads through contact with contaminated water, food, surfaces, or animals. Petting farms, in particular, can pose a higher risk if hygiene practices are not properly followed.
You may have been exposed if:
- You had direct contact with infected animals (especially young livestock)
- You touched contaminated surfaces such as railings or enclosures
- Handwashing stations were inadequate or unavailable
- Staff failed to enforce proper hygiene or animal management protocols
Do You Have a Right to Claim?
Under English and Welsh law, petting farms owe a duty of care to their visitors. If your illness was caused by the farm’s negligence, such as poor hygiene standards, inadequate signage, or failure to properly manage infected animals, you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim.
We’ll work with you to establish:
- That the farm breached its duty of care
- That your illness was caused as a result
- The extent of your suffering and financial loss
You usually have three years from the date of illness (or from when you became aware of the cause) to make a claim. For children, this time limit extends until their 21st birthday. For more information on this you can read our article on limitation exceptions for children.
If want further advice about a related incident, don’t hesitate to reach out on 0800 213 214. Our specialist legal team at the firm has an experienced track record of handling these cases and will guide you through the process as you need.
