Swine being tested for flu at State Fair - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Six more cases of swine flu have been reported across Indiana, bringing the total number to 11 statewide.

The reports come at the start of the State Fair's 17-day run. Working with the State health officials, the fair is taking several preventive measures.

One included testing each of the 2,000 swine for signs of infection.

Dr. Jim Weisman, a contract veterinarian for the State Fair said, "we were very vigilant bringing animals in to check out their temperatures, which was really unheard of and being done that way, we really raised the awareness prior to the fair opening."

Weisman and other veterinarians are also making daily rounds, checking the pigs and talking to the 4H exhibitors.

Saturday morning, Weisman walked thru the barn asking a young exhibitor, "is (your pig) doing okay? Eating well? All those things?"

State veterinarian Dr. Bret Marsh said so far so good.

"We've had great cooperation from everyone and haven't dismissed a single animal coming into the swine barn," Marsh said.

Andy Howe, an exhibitor from Glasscock County said he appreciated the added steps.

"With them taking the temperatures of everyone coming in, we should be fine, but you're always concerned when you get animals near people, but it's like a cold, if you catch it, it's not that big of an issue."

Marsh said the symptoms may include fever, coughing, a runny nose, sore throat, body aches, nausea and vomiting. He said the virus is spread thru contact.

"It's pig to pig and we do have the virus shed between humans and pigs," he said.

The best way to avoid the spread of it is to wash your hands after touching an animal and never eating or drinking while visiting animal areas.

Rhonda Doster, Auburn said she and her kids are well aware of the drill.

"You just have to be careful and always wash your hands. For humans not to get it, you have to make sure you keep your hands clean, don't rub your nose, mouth and stuff on that," she said.

One way the virus is NOT spread is by eating pork products. Amy Hancock, who manages one of the pork tents at the fair said, "We haven't had anyone ask about it yet, but if they do we'll be sure to tell them it has nothing to do with eating (pork.)"

Hoss Kennedy who just finished an early lunch at the tent said, "all of it's good. We had chops and burgers so I suggest coming here and eating."