There is no evidence of any wrongdoing by the petting farm, which has been advised by Victoria's Department of Health to introduce additional handwashing stations and display warnings about the risk of infection. The bacteria are present on most farms, according to health experts. The cases come amid a surge in Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections across Victoria, with more than 160 recorded so far this year. The bacteria can trigger haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can cause the kidneys to suddenly stop working. STEC is carried in the gastrointestinal tracts of animals and can spread to humans through contact with contaminated faeces. The other toddler, a two-year-old boy, spent 17 days on dialysis and required two blood transfusions. He has since made a full recovery. #fyp #australia #melbourne #pettingzoo #infection