LEWISBURG -
Starting Friday morning, the gates of the fairgrounds open to everyone and as with all fairs, there are a few things to keep in mind to stay safe while enjoying your visit.
Amanda McMichael is a registered sanitarian with the Greenbrier County Health Department.
She said, "Livestock tend to carry pathogens in their fecal material so it's going to be in the straw and hay."
The animals are one of the most popular and exciting elements of the state fair but it's also an area that can spread harmful bacteria if you're not careful.
McMichael said, "Things like salmonella, E. Coli, lysteria, those type of pathogens can become food-borne if you touch your food and don't wash your hands."
Making sure you do not eat in the barns and washing up after you leave are two things fair officials say will keep you in the clear.
State Fair Manager Marlene Jolliffe said, "Folks with children, pushing a stroller through the barn and they have an ice cream cone in one hand or a piece of pizza just either do not take food in the barn or just be really careful about not touching things in the barn."
It doesn't happen often, but getting bit by an animal is also something to watch out for.
McMichael said, "If anyone is bitten, you definitely want to report that so we can do some follow-up."
The Greenbrier County Health Department will also inspect every food vendor at the fair before and during the event to make sure they are up to all safety standards.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and WVNS. All Rights Reserved.
