Swine flu has been making it's way across the country.

With the Four States Fair and Rodeo getting underway in Texarkana, there's been some cause for concern.

The CDC reports there have been more than 290 swine flu cases and one death.

While there's been no cases reported in the Ark-la-tex, fair officals are taking measures to keep animals and fair-goers safe.

More than 1,200 livestock animals will be featured at this year's Four States Fair and Rodeo.

"We're really excited the numbers are better than ever. We've got open beef, show beef, beef cattle. We've got hogs, goats, and lambs," said Bo Rester, Four States Fair President.

The CDC is reporting a new strain of swine flu that can spread more easily from pigs to humans.

Every animal that enters the fairgrounds must first receive clearance at the gate.

"We've got health inspectors from the state of Arkansas at the gate, what the students and the exhibitors have to provide for them is their paperwork from their veterinarian, said Rester.

A petting zoo will be set up in the Findley barn yard. Signs and hand sanitizing stations have been posted all over the fairgrounds.

"We want people to take all of there protective measures, use the hand sanitizers and then of course anytime after touching an animal, it's always smart to go have a thorough hand washing," said Rester.

Fair officals just want to make sure that everyone has a fun and safe time at this year's fair.

CDC officials says people who are pregnant, elderly or have children under five should use special caution around animals at the fair.