MENDOCINO CO., 6/30/25 – Fair and rodeo season is here, and Mendocino County Public Health is reminding residents that interacting with livestock increases the likelihood of getting the flu.
“At these events, it is important to remember while human infections with variant influenza viruses are not common, they do sporadically occur, most commonly among people who have direct contact or attendance at an agricultural fair where animals and pigs are present,” the department said.
The department recommends that people attending fairs and rodeos, or visiting farms, petting zoos, summer camps, aquariums and other places where one may interact with wildlife or livestock, to take the following precautions:
- Don’t eat or drink or put anything in your mouth while in the barn area with animals or show arenas.
- Don’t take toys, pacifiers, cups, bottles, strollers, or similar items into pig barns and show arenas.
- Wash your hands often with soap and running water before and after exposure to animals or use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home to avoid spreading the illness.
While seasonal flu generally circulates during October to May, most variant flu cases – such as swine flu – happen during the summer.
People who have flu symptoms and are immunocompromised should immediately contact a health care provider. Be sure to inform the provider that you were exposed to pigs.
Individuals who are not at higher risk of serious flu complications and do get the flu after encountering pigs should still let their health care provider know.
Letting health care providers know about exposure to pigs enables the provider to decide if testing or special treatment is needed.
“It’s important to know that animals sometimes carry germs that can make people sick. Every year, many people get sick after visiting an animal exhibit,” the department said. “Have fun this summer but stay safe and protect yourself against germs!”
More information about the flu, including how it spreads, prevention, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and more, can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/Flu/.