MANITOWOC, Wisc. (WFRV) Multiple cases of swine flu are being reported following the Manitowoc County Fair.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, confirmed cases of swine flu in Wisconsin has now risen to 14. All of these cases are from people who were exposed to or in close proximity to pigs at either the Wisconsin State Fair, or county fairs in Kenosha, Dodge and Manitowoc counties.
The majority of people infected are children. All of those affected have either recovered or are recovering from the illness. One child was hospitalized.
Health officials are urging caution to anyone attending county fairs.
"Because H3N2v infections have been associated with four Wisconsin fairs already, we are recommending that older adults, pregnant women, young children, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic medical conditions should avoid entering swine barns at fairs this season," said Dr. Henry Anderson, State Health Officer.
Symptoms of swine flu include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people have also reported runny nose, sore throat, eye irritation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Contact your local healthcare provider if you are experiencing flu symptoms and let them know if you've had any contact with or have been in close proximity to swine.
The Wisconsin Division of Public Health is recommending these precautions:
Wash your hands often with soap and running water before and after exposure to pigs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Never eat, drink or put things in your mouth in areas where there are pigs, and don't take food or drink into these areas.
Never take toys, pacifiers, spill-proof cups, baby bottles, strollers or similar items into areas where there are pigs.
Avoid close contact with pigs that look or act ill.
Children younger than 5 years, people 65 years and older, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic medical conditions (like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune systems, and neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions) are at high risk from serious complications if they get influenza. These people should consider avoiding exposure to pigs and swine barns this fair season, especially if sick pigs have been identified.
The fair season is ongoing in Wisconsin until mid-September.
