Assessment of measures to prevent disease associated with animals in agricultural fairs--Maine, 2008.

BACKGROUND

Outbreaks of enteric disease associated with animal exhibits have been reported with increasing frequency. Visitors at venues that permit contact with animals can become exposed by direct animal contact or by contact with environmental surfaces. The Compendium of Measures to Prevent Disease Associated with Animals in Public Settings, issued by the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians (NASPHV), provides recommendations to minimize risks associated with animals in public settings.

METHODS

An observational study of Maine agricultural fairs was conducted to determine whether the recommendations provided by the NASPHV were being utilized.

RESULTS

Visitors had direct contact with animals that are potential sources of enteric pathogens. Eating and drinking were permitted while interacting with animals and, with the exception of strollers, there were no exclusions on items being brought into the exhibits. Few exhibits provided visitors with educational messages regarding disease risk and prevention measures (3%). There were insufficient handwashing signs (18%) and handwashing stations available at animal exhibits (38%) and midways (20%). None of the venues were designed with 1-way visitor flow.

CONCLUSION

The results from this survey suggest that the recommendations provided by the NASPHV are not being fully implemented at agricultural fairs in Maine.