The state Department of Health has opened a call center to answer questions about influenza in the wake of human flu cases being linked to hogs.
The health department announced Friday it had confirmed six new cases of variant influenza, bringing the total in Indiana to 11. The cases have been reported in LaPorte, Jackson, Tipton and Jennings counties. The flu strain can be transmitted between swine and people, and human infections are most likely to occur in people near live infected pigs.
The health department recommends people should wash their hands frequently and should never eat, drink or put anything in their mouth when visiting animal areas.
The number for the call center is 877-826-0011. It is open 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday through Friday.
