Swine-flu toll in Ohio increases to 79 cases

Associated Press

COLUMBUS

Ohio officials say there are now 79 human cases in the state of a new swine flu strain, more than double the number reported earlier this month.

Health and agriculture officials released a new figure Friday showing 79 cases statewide of the influenza strain, known for spreading from pigs to people. It’s a jump from 30 in early August.

The cases have been reported in 21 Ohio counties, with Butler County near Cincinnati having the most at 17.

Officials say many of the cases are linked to people who have had direct contact with swine, or pigs. There are no reported deaths.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say cases of the new strain have popped up in other states including Indiana, Pennsylvania and Illinois.