# 6470
This morning the ISDH (Indiana State Department of Health) announced that a telephone call center will open this afternoon to field questions about the small number swine H3N2v influenza infections reported around the state (see ISDH: Fifth H3N2v Case In Indiana).
Here is the official press release:
State Health Department to Open Call Center for Influenza Questions
INDIANAPOLIS—A call center will open this afternoon from 1-4 p.m. to answer questions regarding influenza infection, the Indiana State Department of Health announced today. Beginning next week, the call center will be open from 8:15 a.m.-4:45 p.m., Monday through Friday. The call center telephone number is (877) 826-0011.
Five confirmed cases of variant influenza A have been identified in Indiana since mid-July. Laboratory testing is pending on potential additional cases. To date, all cases have had contact with swine. The State Health Department continues to monitor influenza activity statewide.
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.
Additional information regarding influenza can be found at the Indiana State Department of Health website at www.in.gov/isdh/25462.htm.
Neighboring Ohio confirmed 9 cases of H3N2v influenza yesterday, and more tests are pending (see CDC Confirms H3N2v In Butler County Outbreak).
Overnight media reports indicated that 2 hogs from the Ohio State fair had tested positive for swine influenza, and had been sent home (see 2 pigs at state fair have swine flu – Columbus Dispatch).
The State Fair in Columbus, Ohio closes this weekend ending a two week run (July 25th- Aug. 5th).
Epidemiological investigations continue in both states looking to determine how many cases of human (and swine) infections with the H3N2v virus have occurred, and the manner in which it is being transmitted.
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