NATION IN BRIEF : FLORIDA : Games Canceled Over Encephalitis Scare

Some high schools canceled Friday night football games because encephalitis spread by night-flying mosquitoes has been confirmed in 12 counties. Health officials urged Floridians to wear protective long-sleeve clothing and load up on bug repellent when they are outdoors at night. The state confirmed 28 cases of the St. Louis strain of encephalitis and listed 10 more as presumed cases as of midday Friday--all in central and southern Florida. Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain that causes fever, sore throat, headaches, confusion and muscular weakness. The incurable disease can lead to convulsions, coma and death. Fifteen people are hospitalized and two are comatose, health officials said.