The S.C. State Fair opens Wednesday, October 14 and runs through Sunday, October 25. This year, with the increase in media coverage about the H1N1 virus, the fair would like to put the general public at ease through informative information about the virus as it pertains to farm animals and about precautions to provide a clean and safe environment.

1. Fairs provide a significant platform for pork producers to improve their animals through showing competition with evaluation of market animals and showcase breeding stock. Additionally pigs are a common project for 4–H and FFA members who are learning to care for animals and gain a greater understanding of production agriculture.

2. The S.C. State Fair works closely with the state veterinarian to protect the health of the animals on exhibition.

3. The H1N1 influenza diagnosed in April 2009 in Mexico is only being spread through humans from one person to another. No pigs have been found to have H1N1 in the United States, nor have pigs spread H1N1 to people. Canada had a case in April where it was suspected that H1N1 was communicated from a human to a pig and a type H1N1 was found in a herd of hogs.

4. For many years the fair has provided hand washing facilities in our livestock areas and numerous restrooms throughout the fairgrounds. This year the fair will add additional antibacterial stations for patrons use.

5. Guidance from the Center of Disease Control (CDC) has not changed with regard to a public gathering and common sense approach to dealing with a virus. Further, the CDC stated in its May 2009 guidance document that large public gatherings provide an opportunity to deliver key educational messages to help reduce the spread of influenza.