Steroid-related meningitis cases rise to 47

NEW YORK - Health officials say the number of people sickened by a deadly meningitis outbreak has risen again. There are now 47 cases in seven states.<br /> <br /> The number of deaths - five - has remained the same.<br /> <br /> Tennessee, Virginia, Maryland, Florida, North Carolina and Indiana had previously reported cases. On Friday, Michigan joined the list, with four cases.<br /> <br /> 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.<br /> <br /> 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.

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