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New Type Of Swine Flu Found In Pennsylvania

By Lynne Adkins

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Pennsylvania health officials are concerned about a new strain of swine flu that has been found in the midwest and now in central part of the commonwealth.

This strain known as H3N2v is normally found in swine, but has jumped to humans and health officials are quite concerned.

Dr. Stephen Ostroff, who is Pennsylvania's acting physician general, says the cases have been mild, but the numbers are increasing.

"We're paying very close attention to any instances that we see of this virus to be able to investigate them and look at the severity of illness and the potential of it to spread from one person to another."

Ostroff says so far there is no indication that the virus has been spread from person to person.

He suggests anyone who might be at high risk for flu to avoid areas where live pigs are displayed such as fairs and zoos.

And if you feel ill after visiting such an attraction, Ostroff suggests you contact your doctor and the local health department.

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