Rotherham mums-to-be warned of sheep danger

Rotherham's Public Health team is advising expectant mums that should be careful to avoid close contact with animals giving birth, warning they would be risking their own health, and that of their unborn child, from infections.

Pregnant women should also be aware that the risks are not only confined to the spring, when the majority of lambs are born, but at any point that lambs are giving birth.

The risks are also not only associated with sheep — cows and goats that have recently given birth can also carry similar infections.

Farmers have a responsibility to minimise the risks to pregnant women, including members of their family, the public and professional staff visiting farms.

They should consult their veterinary surgeon about suitable vaccination programmes and any other disease control measures in sheep, cattle and goats.