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COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Public health officials say a mumps outbreak in central Ohio has reached 299 cases. That's about three-quarters of all the reported cases nationwide.
The running total of the cases of the contagious viral illness was reported by Columbus health officials as of Wednesday, with 179 of those linked to Ohio State University.
The cases date to early January.
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.
Heath 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.
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