The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says a new strain of the swine flu has been found, and at least 145 cases have been reported in four states.
Local health officials say there have not been any cases reported in our area, but Onondaga County Health Commissioner Cynthia Morrow says it's important to always use caution.
"If you are a pig handler, or if you're going to an area where there are pigs, and you plan to touch the pigs, do not eat, drink, touch your face, wipe your nose without washing your hands. That's the most important message," says Morrow.
Some of the illnesses have been traced by the county and state fairs in other states.
Officials from the New York State Fair say they're having veterinarians check out all the animals before they're displayed.
Still, some local parents say they're going to emphasize the importance of staying safe to their children.
"It just makes me want to make sure I'm telling them to be clean and be safe and watch what they're doing," says Caylon Newby, who has two children.
Health officials say it appears the flu was transferred from pigs to people, so they're reminding everyone if a pig looks ill, it's in your best interest not to touch it.
