Spain raises to 44 number of swine flu cases

The Associated Press , Madrid Mon, 05/04/2009 4:07 PM World Spain's Health Ministry has raised the number of confirmed cases of swine flu to 44.That number means Spain remains the hardest-hit nation in Europe amid the worldwide outbreak.A ministry statement says four new cases have been confirmed in the northeastern regions of Aragon and Catalonia.It says the four have been allowed leave hospital. In all, 38 of the 44 confirmed cases have returned home. Another 67 people are under observation.The statement says Health Minister Trinidad Jimenez is meeting Monday with the national committee set up to monitor the flu epidemic. He is also meeting with Development Minister Jose Blanco to discuss preventive measures to apply at Spain's airports.