Warning over parasite causing sickness in youngsters

Public Health Isle of Man is warning people to take extra care to avoid a parasite during farm visits.

Cryptosporidium lives in many farm animals and can be passed to humans, causing diarrhoea, stomach pains, fever, nausea and vomiting for up to three weeks.

There's no treatment and it usually clears up on its own, but the advice is to consult a GP for cases involving young children, the elderly or those with immune disorders.

As well as good home hygiene, you should avoid swimming for two weeks after symptoms clear.

Cryptosporidiosis is an illness caused by a parasite. It can be contracted through contact with farm animals and sick pets or indirectly through contaminated food.
If you feel unwell after visiting a farm: seek medical advice. Find out more https://t.co/CbaCWHMKmQ pic.twitter.com/kdoBFQRJxA

— Public Health Isle of Man (@PublicHealthIOM) February 26, 2026