Two confirmed cases of influenza A in Tippecanoe County

TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) - Thursday, health officials confirm two cases of variant influenza A in Tippecanoe County and a slight increase in some counties already known to have cases.

That brings the statewide total to 120 confirmed cases.

19 counties in Indiana have now been impacted by the outbreak.

This particular strand of flu can be directly transmitted from swine to people and from people to swine.

Human infections are most likely to occur when people are close to live infected pigs, such as working with them in barns and livestock exhibits at fairs.

Influenza viruses are not transmitted by eating pork and pork products.

Flu symptoms usually include fever and respiratory symptoms, such as cough, sore throat, and runny nose, and possibly other symptoms, such as body aches, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea. Symptoms may last anywhere from three to eight days.

To avoid influenza and other respiratory infections, Hoosiers are reminded to follow these simple practices:

· Wash your hands frequently, including before and after touching animals.

· Never 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 extra careful around animals.

· Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or elbow.

· If possible, avoid contact with those who are ill.

· Stay home if you develop influenza symptoms and contact your health care provider.