With the school holidays under way, thousands of families are expected to visit animal attractions, children's farms and petting zoos over the coming weeks. However, health officials with North Yorkshire Council have issued advice reminding visitors that farm animals can carry "harmful" infections. E. coli, Salmonella and Cryptosporidium can be passed to humans through contact with animals or contaminated surfaces. North Yorkshire Council states: "Visiting a petting farm can be a fun family day out. North Yorkshire Council said pregnant women should not assist with animal births or handle materials contaminated by birthing fluids, as some infections can pose a risk to unborn babies.