North Dakota State Fair Pigs Test Positive for Swine Flu Strain

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Three pigs exhibited at the recent North Dakota State Fair in Minot have tested positive for a strain of swine flu.

The state Agriculture Department says results from the National Veterinary Services Laboratory show the pigs tested positive for the H3N2 influenza virus.

Officials say influenza can spread from pigs to people, but there is no evidence that any people have become ill due to exposure to the pigs.

State animal health officials inspect all livestock displayed at the State Fair. Officials say the pigs appeared healthy when they arrived at the fair and became sick later. Their owners removed them after they were tested, at the recommendation of veterinarians.

State officials did not disclose who owned the pigs or where they came from.