USDA, CDC Begin Efforts to Prevent Flu Strains at Fairs SDA and
the Centers for Disease Control is working with Ohio State
University Extension on strategies for county fairs to minimize
the spread of H1N1 and H3N2 flu strains next year. This year -
more than 300 cases of the flu were reported from swine at
county fairs - with most in Ohio and Indiana. Only 12 to 13
human cases were reported last year. So Extension Veterinarian
Andy Bowman says discussions include the possibility of having
pigs vaccinated two-months before they go to a fair, shortening
the length of time pigs are at the fair, making all shows
terminal so pigs can't go back to the herd and limiting the
public's access to barns. Remaining proactive is another major
step - according to a Fair Board President - meaning hand
sanitizers in livestock barns and exits will most likely stay.
It's all about keeping people - and the animals - safe. © 2013
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