Sixteen people have fallen ill with cryptosporidium after visiting a petting farm near Edinburgh.

Health officials are now investigating the cases, which have been traced back to Craigies Farm in South Queensferry.

Cryptosporidium, a disease carried by a wide range of farm animals including sheep, goats, cattle, and pigs, causes symptoms such as diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting .

The infection can be contracted by touching animals or through contact with animal enclosures, fields, gates, and fences.

Dr Graham Mackenzie, consultant in public health medicine at NHS Lothian and the East Region Health Protection Service, 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.”

An outbreak of cryptosporidium has been traced back to…