SAN DIEGO -- The spread of swine flu, especially among children, has put a scare into many Halloween plans, 10News reported.

For Erica Rojas and 2-year-old Kiara, Halloween fun may be spent at Balboa Park.

"This year is going to be a tough one," said Rojas.

Monsters aside, Rojas said her biggest fright is swine flu, and she isn't taking any chances. There will be no large-scale parties; only a get-together with a few family members.

Kiara has a costume and will probably only trick-or-treat at two homes.

According to an exclusive 10News poll, almost one-third of San Diego parents said they are taking special precautions for Halloween.

Experts said swine flu can survive on candy wrappers. It's not known how long, but experts believe it could be several hours.

Dr. Janet Crow, a pediatrician at the University of California, San Diego, said candy is still less risky than shaking hands or touching a doorknob.

"Any place where you have full hand contact is more concerning," said Crow.

Crow also said those handing out candy should take precautions.

"I put the candy in the buckets rather than having a lot of children in the buckets," said Crow.

Crow suggested letting candy sit for 24 hours.

Rojas said, "I wipe my candy wrappers with wipes."

Crow said she is not advising families to stay away from events.

Experts said if you or your child is sick, you should sit out Halloween.