It’s county fair season: Oregon Health Authority shares farm animal safety tips amid bird flu concerns

PORTLAND, Ore. ( KOIN ) – Amid county fair season, Oregon health officials issued safety tips to prevent the spread of avian influenza, also known as bird flu, and other diseases that can be spread by farm animals.

According to the Oregon Health Authority, “common-sense” measures for avoiding exposure to the disease include washing hands often and avoiding eating or drinking while in animal areas.

“County fairs are so important for celebrating agriculture education and the dedication of Oregon’s agricultural communities. Farm animal exhibits are a big part of what makes these events so fun,” said Dean Sidelinger, health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA. “There are a few common-sense actions people can take to keep the fun going while preventing exposure to germs animals carry that can make people sick.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention , more than 130 dairy cow herds in 12 states have confirmed cases of H5N1 bird flu. No dairy cow or human cases have been reported in Oregon, officials said.

To reduce risk of infection, the CDC recommends people stay home if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms, keeping toys, pacifiers, cups, and strollers out of animal areas, avoiding eating or drinking in animal areas, and washing hands often with soap and water after touching animals or equipment in their environment.

For people exhibiting animals, the CDC recommends minimizing contact with pigs, poultry, cattle, and other animals that appear sick. Additionally, health officials recommend wearing personal protective equipment such as protective clothing, gloves, goggles, and a respirator or well-fitting mask that covers your face and mouth if you are in contact with animals that may be ill.

To prevent the spread of bird flu, farm animals should stay at fairs for short periods of time, ideally three days or less, according to the CDC, adding, animals that are sick should be kept home.

Bird flu symptoms to watch for in animals include loss of appetite, fever, eye redness, cough, runny nose, or the appearance of discomfort.

Health experts recommend disinfecting all feeders, waterers, and other equipment and show supplies before and after bringing animals to a fair, and to not share equipment used for other animals.

Human bird flu symptoms include fever, cough sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, and eye irritation.

Kids 5-years-old and younger, along with adults 65-years-old and up, pregnant people, and people with chronic medical conditions are at a higher risk of developing serious complications and should limit contact with animals that could carry the disease, officials said.

Starting in July, OHA issued a statewide notice, recommending clinicians to test patients for influenza viruses, including bird flu.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.