Northern Nevada Public Health is investigating an outbreak of cryptosporidiosis cases associated with a live animal yoga class in Washoe County.

NNPH says cryptosporidiosis, sometimes referred to as “Crypto”, is an illness caused by a parasite that can spread when small amounts of fecal matter from infected animals are accidentally ingested.

Symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting. Other illnesses that may be transmitted through animal contact include salmonellosis and E. coli infections.

NNPH is reminding the public to take certain precautions when participating in live animal yoga classes (which can include goats, rabbits, puppies, etc.).

“While activities like animal yoga can be enjoyable and beneficial, it’s important for participants to understand the potential health risks associated with close contact with animals,” said Dr. Chad Kingsley, District Health Officer for Northern Nevada Public Health. “Simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of illness.”

How to Reduce Your Risk

NNPH recommends the following steps when interacting with animals or environments where animals are present:

* Wash hands thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds after contact with animals or their environment.

o If handwashing is not immediately available, use hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol); note that it may not be effective against certain organisms such as Cryptosporidium.

* Avoid kissing, cuddling, or holding animals.

* Do not eat, drink, or put objects in your mouth while in animal areas.

* Closely supervise children when they are around animals.

* Use EPA-approved disinfectants when cleaning areas contaminated with animal feces.

NNPH encourages farms and organizations offering animal-based activities to implement safety measures that help protect participants, including:

* Providing accessible handwashing stations with running water, soap, and paper towels.

* Prohibiting food, beverages, toys, pacifiers, and strollers in animal areas.

* Maintaining clear protocols for waste management, including prompt cleaning and disinfection of soiled surfaces such as yoga mats and commonly touched areas.

People who get diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting after contact with animals should contact their healthcare provider.

Andelin Family Farms has released a statement stating that the cases are not linked to them. "Andelin Family Farm offers baby goat yoga classes and other animal experiences during the Baby Animal Days Event and has not received any notification from farm customers or Public Health about any cases linked to Andelin Family Farm."

In addition the farm says it follows several health and safety protocols related to animal interactions including washing baby animals multiple times per week, cleaning animal pens daily and having staff supervise animal experiences.

They also say that goat yoga is held in an area separate from the goats' habitat. The goats are brought to the yoga area temporarily during the class time.

(Northern Nevada Public Health, Andelin Family Farm contributed to this report)