Stay Safe at the Fair

Timonium is so much fun right now! I love that my office at Doctors Express is directly across York Road from the main entrance to the fairgrounds. Seeing families enjoy the fun is heartwarming.

My favorite part of the fair is having the opportunity to meet so many great animals, from racing pigs to hatching chicks and graceful horses. Getting up close and personal with these furry and feathery friends is part of what makes the fair such a special experience.

It’s important to remember, however, to take precautions when having close encounters with livestock. Many animals can carry dangerous viruses and bacteria, even when the animals themselves are healthy.

The germs are in their waste, which can transfer to the bottoms of shoes and stroller wheels. Bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella can also be in an animal’s saliva or coat—easily passed to human hands when they touch the animals and surrounding surfaces.

Here’s how to stay safe around the animals:

• Don’t take food or drink into barns.
• Always wash hands thoroughly after being near animals.
• Put away pacifiers and always monitor small children closely when they are around animals.
• Remember that elderly folks, young children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems have the highest risk of infection.

The fairgrounds are well equipped with convenient hand-washing stations, so use them! Scrubbing with soap and water is proven to be more effective than just using hand sanitizer.

This time of year can bring some sweltering weather, so also remember to:

• Wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
• Stay hydrated and make sure children drink plenty of water.
• Take frequent breaks to rest your feet and cool off.

See you at the fair!

Be well.