What risk do goats present to the public if allowed public contact?

• A. Salmonella
• B. Shiga-toxin producing E. coli (STEC)
• C. Campylobacter
• D. Listeria monocytogenes

Answer: (B)

Direct contact with goats can transmit infections primarily through fecal-oral spread of Shiga-toxin producing E. coli. Goats can shed STEC even when they appear healthy, and people—especially children—can acquire it by touching goats and then putting contaminated hands or objects in their mouths or by touching contaminated surfaces. STEC infection can cause severe illness, including hemorrhagic diarrhea and, in some cases, hemolytic uremic syndrome, making it the most significant zoonotic risk in public goat contact settings like petting areas or farm visits.

Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Listeria can also be risks in animal contact or certain foods, but the association and potential severity with STEC in goats exposed to the public are the most notable concern. Emphasizing hand hygiene and hygiene measures helps reduce this risk.