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Bird flu restrictions cause heartache for 4-H kids unable to show off livestock at fairs across US

ABC News
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State fairs across the country have implemented strict restrictions around livestock after an outbreak of avian influenza.

The risk to humans from the bird flu virus remains low, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

Michigan has been among the hardest-hit states, with two farmworkers infected and 27 livestock herds affected.

Minnesota State Fair excluded birthing cows and newborn calves from the popular exhibit as a precaution.

Youth can participate in 4 -H activities up until age 19 and with only a few years left before she ages out, Smith hopes 2025 will be different.

She and her team developed a list of alternative activities that local fairs could offer in place of traditional showings.

The alternative activities include quiz bowls, photography contests and recorded showmanship.