Human cases of Influenza A variant H3N2 (swine flu) continue to rise across the state, including several in surrounding counties.
Across the state 79 cases have been confirmed. Thirteen cases have been confirmed in Champaign County and one in Union County.
The case breakdown per county is as follows:
Ashland: 1
Athens: 5
Butler: 17
Clark: 3
Fairfield: 1
Franklin: 4
Gallia: 11
Greene: 5
Hamilton: 3
Henry: 2
Jackson: 1
Licking: 1
Medina: 1
Monroe: 2
Montgomery: 1
Morrow: 1
Preble: 1
Ross: 4
Warren: 1
Those confirmed with the flu are between the ages of six months and 36 years old. Several were hospitalized but have been treated and released.
Individuals most likely became ill after exposure to swine. Officials have not determined human-to-human transmission.
With county fairs running into the first week of October in Ohio, ODA and ODH remind residents and visitors that fair attendance is safe. Those attending the fair should remember:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and running water before and after exposure to animals.
- Never eat, drink or put things in your mouth in animal areas, and don’t take food or drink into animal areas.
- Young children, pregnant women, people 65 and older and people with weakened immune systems should be extra careful around animals.
- If you have animals – including swine – watch them for signs of illness and call a veterinarian if you suspect they might be sick.
- Avoid close contact with animals that look or act ill, when possible.
- Avoid contact with swine if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms.
More information is available from ODH at: http://bit.ly/OhioH3N2vUpdates.
