Sixteen people ill after visiting petting farm in Edinburgh

Sixteen people have become unwell with after visiting a petting farm in Edinburgh.

NHS Lothian confirmed it was investigating the cases of cryptosporidiosis which were traced to Craigies Farm in South Queensferry.

The parasitic infection, linked to farm animals, can cause severe diarrhoea, vomiting and stomach cramps and can be serious for young children.

John Sinclair, the owner of the farm, said they took reports of illness "very seriously" and had increased cleaning procedures. Visitors have also been stopped from cuddling the lambs.

The health board said environmental health officers were working closely with the visitor attraction.

BBC News understands that Craigies - which also operates a cafe, farm shop and deli - has remained open since the cases were identified.

The lamb-feeding experience ran as planned and ended on Monday.

Cryptosporidiosis, caused by the parasite cryptosporidium, can be carried by a wide range of farm animals including sheep, cattle, pigs and goats.

Dr Graham Mackenzie, NHS Lothian public health consultant, said: "We are working closely with colleagues in hospital and primary care to ensure that if any further cases arise they receive appropriate and timely care."

He added: "Infection can be picked up by touching or petting animals or through contact with fields, fences, gates and buildings where animals have been kept.

"We generally see a seasonal increase in cryptosporidiosis cases in springtime and all cases are investigated to identify a source.

"To reduce the risk of infection it is important to wash your hands after contact with animals or areas where they are kept."

Sinclair, who founded the farm, said: "We are aware of a small number of visitors who have reported illness following visits to the farm and we take this very seriously."

He said that a local environmental health team had visited the site and were satisfied with the "controls procedures and hygiene measures in place".

"As with all farms, the key control is good hygiene, particularly thorough handwashing after contact with animals," he added.

"We provide handwashing facilities, clear guidance before, during and after the experience, and removed higher contact elements such as lamb cuddling to further reduce risk.

"Following recent discussions, we have also taken additional steps to strengthen cleaning procedures within animal areas.

"The health and safety of our visitors is our priority, and we will continue to review and improve our processes where required."