Fair’s Petting Zoo Reminds Patrons To Wash Their Paws

The Florida State Fair will be opening with a message for fairgoers who visit animal exhibits to wash their hands, according to the Tribune.
Fair officials unveiled portable hand-washing stations that are part of a plan to teach patrons how to protect themselves against E. coli bacteria.
In addition, bright yellow signs in English and Spanish near the fair’s animal exhibits ask, “Did you touch the animals? Please wash your hands, especially before eating or putting your fingers in your mouth.”
Last year, state health investigators confirmed 22 cases of E. coli infection traced to petting zoos at the Florida Strawberry Festival, Florida State Fair and Central Florida Fair. Officials are hoping that the added measures reduce any risk this year.