The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has warned of the 'serious risks' for pregnant women during the lambing and calving season.

The HSENI said pregnant women may be exposed to dangerous zoonotic infections carried by sheep, cows and goats that have recently given birth.

These infections can harm both the mother and unborn child.

While the number of human pregnancies affected by these infections is low, the HSENI said the consequences can be severe.

The executive noted that the risk is not confined solely to the spring lambing peak as "any contact with animals giving birth at any time of year can present a danger" for pregnant women.

Lambing

To avoid the risk of infection, HSENI strongly advises that pregnant women should:

Not help to lamb ewes, calve cows or assist nanny goats that are kidding;
Avoid all contact with aborted or newborn lambs, calves or kids, and avoid any exposure to afterbirth, birthing fluids, or contaminated bedding;
Not handle or wash clothing, boots, tools, or materials that may have been contaminated by animals that have recently given birth;
Ensure that partners or family members involved in lambing take strict hygiene precautions, including appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and thorough washing after any contact with birthing animals;
Seek immediate medical advice if they experience fever, flu-like symptoms, or have any concerns after being on or near farm environments during lambing or calving.

Dr. Bryan Monson, deputy chief executive for HSENI, said: "Even indirect exposure from handling clothing or boots used during lambing can carry risk.

"We want every farm family to understand these dangers clearly so they can take the right precautions.”

Calving

The HSENI is also reminded all farmers that the lambing and calving season brings significant health and safety challenges.

It warned that long hours, broken sleep and physically demanding work can lead to severe fatigue, which impairs judgement and slows reaction times.

“A tired farmer is a vulnerable farmer. Taking planned breaks, asking for help, and never entering a pen with a calving cow or protective ewe without a safe escape route are essential steps to prevent serious injury," Monson said.

The HSENI has suggested the following safety measures for farmers during lambing and calving:

Always carry a charged mobile phone;
Tell someone where you are working;
Ask for help if a task feels too risky alone;
Take time to secure gates properly;
Never turn your back on a cow or heifer around calving time. Even normally calm livestock can become dangerous if startled or protecting their young.

"Approaching the season well prepared, reviewing safety procedures and recognising early signs of strain or risk can make the spring workload safer and more manageable,” Monson said.