More than 100 cases of flu linked to swine in Indiana
By: Sydney Benter
Updated: August 8, 2012
More than 100 cases of a variant influenza tied to swine are confirmed in Indiana.
According to the Indiana Department of Health, variant influenza A cases have been confirmed in 18 counties statewide including Greene and Owen counties locally.
The virus can be directly transmitted from swine to people and from people to swine.
Health officials say people who work with pigs in barns and at livestock exhibits at fairs are at risk for infection.
They say they expect more confirmed cases this week.
Here are some tips to avoid influenza and other respiratory infections:
- Wash hands frequently, especially before and after touching animals
- Don't eat, drink or put anything in your mouth when visiting animal areas
- Older adults, pregnant women, young children and people with weakened immune systems should be careful around animals
- Cough or sneeze into your sneeze or elbow
The Indiana State Department of Health has set up a call center to answer questions regarding variant influenza A. That number is (877) 826-0011.
