While the E. coli outbreak linked to spinach is making headlines ("The Score," Street Talk, Sept. 20), there is another source that puts people's health at serious risk: petting zoos. Yes, those ubiquitous fair and carnival sideshows can land you in the hospital, or worse.
Petting zoos are hotbeds of E. coli bacteria, and numerous people, mostly children, have been infected with the potentially deadly disease after visiting such displays. Some children have died; others have required kidney transplants. Infections can spread through direct animal contact or simply by touching the surroundings near an animal exhibit.
It's time to shut these unhealthy, inhumane exhibits down for good. For more information on petting zoos, please visit www.WildlifePimps.com.
Jennifer O'Connor
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
Norfolk
Petting zoos are hotbeds of E. coli bacteria, and numerous people, mostly children, have been infected with the potentially deadly disease after visiting such displays. Some children have died; others have required kidney transplants. Infections can spread through direct animal contact or simply by touching the surroundings near an animal exhibit.
It's time to shut these unhealthy, inhumane exhibits down for good. For more information on petting zoos, please visit www.WildlifePimps.com.
Jennifer O'Connor
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
Norfolk
