Central Ohio mumps outbreak tops 300 cases

COLUMBUS (AP) — Public health officials say a mumps outbreak in central Ohio has reached 303 cases, about three-quarters of reported cases nationwide.

The running total of the cases of the contagious viral illness, which date to early January, was reported by Columbus health officials today, with 182 of those linked to Ohio State University.

Mumps often starts with fever, fatigue and body aches. Those infected are urged to stay home, cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, and frequently wash their hands.

Health officials have advised college, school and even day-care leaders to make sure central Ohio students are immunized and to separate them from those who haven’t been vaccinated and those who are infected.