Health Tip: Avoid Germs From a Petting Zoo

(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.