Health Tip: Avoid Germs From a Petting Zoo
May 26, 2009, 12:02 PM ET
• 1 min read
May 27 -- (HealthDay News) -- Petting zoos are a fun attraction for children, but it can expose you and the youngsters to germs.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that you take these precautions:
Make use of any hand-washing stations set up around the petting zoo.Always wash hands immediately after petting the animals, after touching gates or fences, and always before you eat.Try to wash hands with soap and water; hand-sanitizing gel will suffice if no running water is present.Never take food or drink into the petting zoo area.Carefully watch young children, especially those aged 5 or younger. Make sure that while petting the animals, they don't put anything into their mouths -- including fingers, pacifiers or toys.