CLEVELAND – The Cuyahoga County Fair has canceled all swine-related portions of this year’s event, due to illnesses reported in other parts of the state.
The fair cited the move was “out of an abundance of caution.”
“Based upon current events and the associated health risks, the fair board, in cooperation with the Cuyahoga County Board of Health, wishes to minimize the public’s opportunity for exposure to the H3N2 influenza virus,” said the fair board in a news release.
The canceled parts include swine exhibits, displays and competitions.
Last week, the Ohio Department of Health confirmed at least nine human cases of swine flu and 41 total reports of possible cases of illness that carry the same symptoms of swine flu.
Also last week, the Ohio State Fair in Columbus sent home two pigs that had the virus.
The swine flu virus, officially called H3N2, can be passed from pigs to humans, and the other way around.
The Cuyahoga County Fair started Monday and runs through Sunday, Aug. 12. Officials said hand-washing stations will be available near all animal buildings.
LOCAL: Swine Related Events Cancelled at the Cuyahoga County Fair due to Illness was originally published on wzakcleveland.com
