HOLLAND, MI (WHTC-AM/FM) – Local and state public health officials continue to investigate a large hepatitis A outbreak in the southeast part of Michigan.
Since the beginning of the outbreak in August 2016, more than 450 associated cases have been reported. No common sources of food, beverages or drugs have been identified as a potential source of infection. No cases of hepatitis A connected to this outbreak have been reported to date in Ottawa County.
Hepatitis A is a serious, highly contagious liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). HAV is found in the feces of people with hepatitis A. It can cause damage to the liver and other health problems. Hepatitis A can range from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious illness lasting several months. Illness can appear 15-50 days after exposure and can last for several weeks. Not all people infected with hepatitis A experience symptoms.
Kristina Weighmink is Communications Specialist/Public Information Officer for the Ottawa County Department of Public Health and she says prevention is key.
“Practice proper hygiene and hand washing. You want to make sure you wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water after the restroom or changing a diaper and before you eat or prepare any food. It is transmitted from fecal matter to mouth, so ingesting contaminated food or water
Symptoms include:
- nausea and vomiting
- belly pain
- fever
- loss of appetite
- yellowing of the skin and eyes
- dark urine
- pale-colored feces
- joint pain
People who think they may have been exposed should call their doctor immediately.
People who are at the highest risk include:
- People with a history of substance use.
- People currently homeless or in transient living.
- Men who have sex with men.
- People incarcerated in correctional facilities.
- Food handlers.
- Healthcare workers.
- People with underlying liver disease.
- People who are in close contact with any of the above risk groups.
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How can hepatitis A infection be prevented?
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Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water after using the bathroom or changing a diaper and before eating or preparing food.
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Do not share towels, toothbrushes and eating utensils.
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Get vaccinated with two doses of Hepatitis A vaccine. Contact your primary care physician for availability.
The Ottawa County Department of Public Health encourages people to be aware of the associated risk factors and the importance of preventing hepatitis A infection.
