Thursday, August 22, 2013
CANFIELD
It is nearly Canfield Fair time, not yet flu season, but county public health officials remind fair patrons, exhibitors and food vendors to wash their hands thoroughly and often.
It is especially important to wash with soap and water before eating or preparing food after visiting animal exhibits and restrooms, said Mary Helen Smith, environmental director for the Mahoning County District Board of Health.
Norovirus, a very contagious virus that is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as food poisoning or stomach flu in the United States, can be contracted from an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Using soap and water is important because hand sanitizers do not kill norovirus. It’s removed only by manual washing, Smith said.
Part of the hand-washing campaign at the fair includes signs in restrooms and at animal exhibits and elsewhere, , said Joseph Diorio, director of the health department’s community health division.
“Visiting the barns is one of the most important ways to teach young people about animals. By taking some common- sense precautions, we can ensure that visiting the fair remains a fun, safe, and wholesome educational activity for your family,” said Patricia Sweeney, county health commissioner.
The county health board met Wednesday at the Canfield Fairgrounds to complete preparations for the Canfield Fair which runs Wednesday through Labor Day.
Smith said 13 health department sanitarians and two plumbers will be on hand to inspect food vendors, food preparation and handling, and water hook-ups.
The sanitarians make sure the food is from an approved source, and that it is being cooked, kept warm and cooled at safe temperatures. The plumbers will ensure that water is not cross- connected with the public water supply, Smith said.
As another safety precaution, the fair veterinarian, Dr. Doug Wiley, owner of the Lisbon Veterinary Clinic in Lisbon, will inspect animals for illnesses every morning, especially the swine, Diorio said.