Observational study of measures taken to prevent zoonotic disease transmission in animal areas at Connecticut agricultural fairs

Background: Farm animals may be healthy reservoirs for human enteric pathogens and are often exhibited at agricultural fairs where the public can have contact with them, increasing the likelihood of pathogen transmission. In 2005, the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians (NASPHV) published recommendations to inform visitors and owners of measures to prevent zoonotic disease transmission at petting zoos, fairs, and animal exhibits. Methods: During September 2006, we conducted an observational study at a convenience sample of 10 Connecticut agricultural fairs to determine adherence to the NASPHV recommendations. We developed a checklist which included the structural characteristics of the animal areas, the presence of signs and warnings about enteric disease transmission, and the structure, location, and frequency of use of handwashing facilities. Results: Of the 50 animal areas visited at the 10 fairs, 80% had restriction signs, 28% had risk information signs, and 7% had information regarding enteric pathogens. Many restricted items (food/drink, strollers, sippy cups, pacifiers) were observed to be present inside the animal areas. Sixty percent of the animal areas had handwashing facilities; 52% had handwashing instruction signs. An average of 483 people visited the animal areas per hour; but only 28 people used the handwashing facilities hourly. Conclusion: Few visitors wash their hands after visiting an animal area despite the presence of handwashing signs and facilities. Also, many visitors disregard restriction signs. Providing information about risk and posting larger signs in easily observable locations may help to increase awareness about enteric pathogens and encourage handwashing.