Wash Hands after Contact with Animals
Four cases of E.coli infection (E.coli O157) have recently been identified in Indiana that are associated with exposure to animals. State health officials recommend washing hands or using hand sanitizer upon exiting animal areas. Health officials say people should always wash their hands thoroughly before eating or preparing foods, after going to the toilet, and after removing soiled clothes and shoes.
Directions for thoroughly washing hands are:
- Wet hands with running water
- Place soap in palms
- Rub together to make a lather
- Scrub hands vigorously for 20 seconds
- Rinse soap off hands
- Dry hands with disposable paper towels, not on clothing.
“People should know that animals may carry germs that can make them sick, and they should never eat, drink, or put things in their mouths in animal areas,” said Indiana State Health Commissioner Judy Monroe, M.D. “Older adults, pregnant women, and young children should be especially careful around animals.”
“We don’t want people to stop enjoying animal exhibits, like petting zoos,” said Dr. Monroe. “However, it is important for people to remember that they can become infected with E.coli, salmonella, or other bacteria if they come into contact with domestic or farm animals and then do not wash their hands thoroughly.”