KANAWHA COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Health officials are urging people to take precautions as they attend county fairs this summer after swine flu made its way to West Virginia.

They say three Mason County people contracted the virus after spending time near pigs at the Gallia County fair across the river. Now, officials are trying to stop it from spreading throughout the state.

"Animals can transmit diseases to humans...they can transmit the flu to humans, and it's usually people that have direct contact with the swine," Janet Briscoe with the Kanawha County Department of Health said.

Crowds filled the Kanawha County fair Thursday evening at Shawnee Park, proving the swine flu scare wasn't enough to keep them away.

"I think as long as you wash your hands and keep your hands clean, that would be the most important thing," Randy Parsons said.

Amy Weintraub agreed, saying she's not afraid of getting sick. "Basic hygiene is really important," she said. "Washing hands before you eat, after you use the restroom...these are all things I teach my children."

There weren't any pigs at the Kanawha County fair, but experts say all livestock can spread germs. They say you should always use caution and hand sanitizer after petting the animals.

"Anytime you're in contact with animals, wash your hands," Briscoe said. "Especially children. Make sure they're not eating before those hands are washed."