The death toll of the pig-borne endemic in southwest China's Sichuan Province reached 34 as of 12 a. m. Saturday, according to the Chinese Ministry of Health.

The province has reported 174 cases of swine streptococosis II. Among them, 123 were confirmed cases and 51 suspected ones, said the ministry in a latest report.

Twelve people have been discharged from hospital and 28 others are in critical condition.

Cases were also reported from Wednesday to Saturday in cities of Chengdu, Zigong, Suining, Luzhou and Mianyang, all in southwestern Sichuan Province, totaling 26.

The endemic broke out in late June in cities and counties including Ziyang City, Jianyang City, Lezhi County and Zizhong County in Neijiang City. All the patients had direct contact with ill or dead pigs.

Source: Xinhua