Investigation launched into Welsh tourist attraction after 28 people fall ill Public Health Wales is investigating an incident at a farm in Wales At least 28 people have fallen ill after a feeding session at a farm in Wales (Image: Manchester Evening News ) An investigation has been launched into an incident after dozens of people who attended feeding and petting sessions at a farm in Wales contracted a parasitic infection. At least 28 have been infected with cryptosporidium, which is a parasite that can cause gastrointestinal illness. It is often linked to contact with animals, particularly young farm animals such as calves and lambs. ‌ It can come from parasites that live in the faeces of infected animals and can cause illness in humans. Symptoms can include diarrhoea, stomach pains or cramps and nausea or vomiting. ‌ Public Health Wales said on Wednesday, April 30, that it was investigating 28 cases of cryptosporidium infection in people who visited the Cowbridge Farm Shop at Marlborough Grange Farm in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. The farm initially posted a short statement announcing the closure of its petting and feeding experiences due to “unforeseen circumstances” but the post has since been removed from its Facebook page. The NHS trust said the farm shop had voluntarily ended calf and lamb feeding and petting sessions and were “cooperating with our investigations”. Article continues below The Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Vale of Glamorgan Council and Shared Regulatory Services are also investigating the cases. Su Mably, consultant in health protection at Public Health Wales, said: “We are working closely with partners to investigate these cases and to understand if there is a wider risk to the public. “We would advise anyone who has visited the farm, particularly those who attended feeding or petting sessions, and who is now experiencing symptoms to contact their GP.” ‌ Symptoms of cryptosporidium typically begin between two and 10 days after contact with the parasite and can last for up to two weeks. Young children and people with weakened immune systems can be particularly vulnerable to the effects of the infection. Su Mably, Consultant in Health Protection at Public Health Wales, has advised anyone who has visited the farm and is now experiencing symptoms to contact their GP. He said: “We are working closely with partners to investigate these cases and to understand if there is a wider risk to the public." Article continues below Public Health Wales is reminding people to follow good hygiene practices when visiting farms, including: Washing hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after touching animals. Avoiding food and drink during animal contact Supervising children at all times Cleaning boots and shoes after visiting Pregnant women should avoid new born lambs during lambing season. M.E.N has contacted Cowbridge Farm Shop for comment and further information about cryptosporidium and advice on infection prevention is available from the NHS 111 Wales website.