Meningitis cases now up to 47 across country

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Associated Press

Story Created: Sat Oct 6, 2012 6:40 AM

Story Updated: Sat Oct 6, 2012 7:45 AM

NEW YORK (AP) - Health officials say the number of people sickened by a deadly meningitis outbreak has risen again. There are now 47 cases in seven states.
   
The number of deaths - five - has remained the same.
   
Tennessee, Virginia, Maryland, Florida, North Carolina and Indiana had previously reported cases. On Friday, Michigan joined the list, with four cases.
   
The outbreak of fungal meningitis has been tied to steroid shots used to treat back pain. The steroid was custom-made by a specialty pharmacy in Massachusetts. Health inspectors found fungus in at least one sealed vial of the steroid at the company's facility.
   
The company has recalled the steroid which was sent to clinics in 23 states. The government urged doctors not to use any of the company's products.