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JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. -- The Tri-County Health Department (TCHD) confirmed nine cases of Salmonella linked to the Arapahoe County Fair on Friday, as the investigation into the source of the outbreak continues.
Since August 3, TCHD, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and Arapahoe County, have been investigating Salmonella among people who attended the Arapahoe County Fair, or 4-H events associated with the fair, from July 21 to July 29. Previously, seven cases of Salmonella were identified.
The Jefferson County Fair wraps up on Sunday. Organizers shared the steps exhibitors and visitors take to stay safe from disease among the stalls.
“We use what we call Ag Wash,” said Barbie Garnett, Jefferson County 4-H Youth Development Agent. “It kills all the bacteria that could be forming on the panels and we wash all the panels, anything that the water is going to be in.”
The exhibitors clean up their animal stalls at least twice a day, raking and removing feces and wet shavings. They are also encouraged to use wash stations to wash their hands frequently, especially after coming in contact with the animals. Wash stations are also available for the animals to be cleaned as well.
“With these guys, we are touching them a lot and touching other things that are super dirty, so just washing your hands to make sure that you don’t spread diseases to yourself or other people,” said Casey DeField, 4-H and FFA Exhibitor.
Fans inside the Jefferson County Events Center keep the air circulation flowing. Food and beverages are not allowed when the animals are inside.
“You never know what is flying in the air so we try and keep it out of the barn and away from the animals,” said Garnett.
If you attended events at the Arapahoe County Fair and think you have Salmonella infection, TCHD recommends that you do not prepare food for others and advise that you stay home from work, school, or childcare until at least 24 hours after diarrhea has resolved.
For questions, please contact CO-HELP at 1-877-462-2911 or 303-389-1687. For outbreak updates, click here.
