The Ohio Department of Agriculture is saying they do not feel there is any reason to restrict or cancel swine shows at the upcoming Canfield Fair.

Nearly two dozen pigs tested positive for swine flu at the Ashtabula County Fair over the weekend, prompting concern for the pigs at the Canfield Fair, which kicks off in two weeks.

According to the Ashtabula County Agriculture Society, 20 pigs at the fair showed influenza-like symptoms, including runny noses, loss of appetite, lethargic movement and fever. Many of the pigs were sent home. After testing positive for swine flu, the pigs were treated with aspirin to help bring their fevers down. 

Erica Pitchford, communications director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture, says the pigs have the H3N2 strain of influenza. She said this strain is very common in pigs and rarely causes symptoms in pigs.

Pitchford says this strain of swine flu is different from the H1N1 strain that caused a big outbreak in 2009.

The Department of Agriculture said the transferring of the H3N2 strain to people is very rare and can be prevented with good sanitation practices such as hand washing after contact with animals, especially before eating or drinking.

She says there is no need for people to be concerned, however, people should be vigilant with their health. 

Bob Jarvis, a member of the board of directors for the Canfield Fair, says they have taken precautions to prevent similar problems from happening at the Canfield Fair. He says the board has been in contact with the Ohio Department of Agriculture after hearing about the problems at the Ashtabula County Fair. Jarvis says they have also talked with the Ohio Pork Control Board about how to take the next steps moving forward. 

The Ashtabula County Agriculture Society says some children who attended the fair also showed similar signs, but no one has been diagnosed with the virus. 

Individuals are reminded to consult a healthcare provider if exposed to swine flu or experience flu-like symptoms. Jarvis says the best thing people can do is to wash their hands to prevent spreading. 

Last year, the Ohio Department of Agriculture banned birds at all fairs across Ohio due to concerns of the avian flu.

Jarvis tells 21 News there is no word on whether or not the pig exhibit would be shut down.