 But I think you need to take basic precautions to protect yourself. Those include not eating or drinking inside animal exhibits. Don't touch your eyes or mouth while in barns. And wash your hands after touching animals. Parents should also keep kids' toys, bottles, strollers and other items out of animal areas. Dr. DeBest says the primary risk right now is for avian influenza, which has been found in dairy cows elsewhere in the country. Oregon at this point has not had any.