Sixteen people have fallen ill after visiting Craigies Farm in South Queensferry.

NHS Lothian has confirmed that it is investigating cases of cryptosporidium, a parasite that causes a disease called cryptosporidiosis.

The infection can be carried by a wide range of farm animals, can be picked up by touching or petting animal or through contact with areas where animals have been kept, and can cause watery diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting.

Craigies Farm is also a petting farm, with its lamb-feeding experience running as planned and concluding on Monday.

A spokesperson for Craigies Farm said they were “aware of a small number of visitors who have reported illness following visits to the farm and we take this very seriously.”

They added: “We have been working closely with the Edinburgh Environmental Health team, who have visited the farm and are satisfied with the controls, procedures and hygiene measures in place. We continue to follow all guidance provided.

“We also work alongside the National Farm Attractions Network, a UK-wide organisation that supports farms and Environmental Health teams with best practice guidance to ensure these types of experiences can operate as safely as possible.

“As with all farms, the key control is good hygiene, particularly thorough handwashing after contact with animals. 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.”

The farm also confirmed that cryptosporidiosis is particularly common with young lambs, and that cases occur each year in the UK.

To reduce the risk of infection, NHS Lothian stressed the importance of washing hands after contact with animals or areas where they are kept.

Dr Graham Mackenzie, NHS Lothian public health consultant, said: “We are aware of 16 confirmed cases with links to a visitor attraction in Lothian, and they are being closely monitored. Investigations are continuing, and 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. Environmental Health has worked closely with the visitor attraction.

“Cryptosporidium is a disease that can be carried by a wide range of farm animals including sheep, cattle, pigs and goats. Infection can be picked up by touching or petting animal or through contact with fields, fences, gates and buildings where animals have been kept.

“We generally see a seasonal increase in cryptosporidium 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.  

“Symptoms of cryptosporidium can include diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting.”