Some people with underlying disease may be at increased risk for infection following animal contact. A person at high risk should take special care when handling animals.
People at risk:
(1) older adults > 70 years of age
(2) children < 5 years of age
(3) persons with cognitive impairment (mental retardation)
(4) pregnant females
(5) immunocompromised status:
(5a) HIV disease
(5b) asplenia
(5c) immunosuppressive therapy
(5d) acquired immunodeficiency state
(5e) hereditary immunodeficiency state
Recommendations for a person at increased risk:
(1) The person should wash the hands often and carefully.
(2) The person should avoid direct and indirect (bedding, manure, etc.) contact with animals.
(3) Small children should have contact under adult supervision and only over a barrier separating them from the animal.
(4) The person should avoid unpasteurized milk products and juices.
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