Health officials are encouraging people to protect themselves against swine flu as the number of cases in Indiana has grown to 12.
The Indiana State Department of Health said Wednesday that at least 10 of the affected people had exposure to swine at fairs in Hancock County east of Indianapolis and Grant County southwest of Fort Wayne.
It says human swine flu infections most commonly occur after close proximity to infected pigs, The virus isn't transmitted by eating pork products.
It recommends washing hands with soap and water before and after touching any animal, avoiding face-to-face contact with animals, and keeping hands away from mouths when in contact with animals. People at high risk for flu complications should avoid close contact with swine in at fairs.
