Hepatitis A Outbreak
TRINITY COUNTY - Outbreaks of Hepatitis A disease continue in two California counties (Santa Cruz and San Diego) as well as in Arizona and Utah. As of Aug. 20, two residents of Trinity County have tested positive for Hepatitis A disease. The HHS Public Health Department, in conjunction with Environmental Health, is working closely with California Department of Public Health to monitor and respond to the increase in Hepatitis A cases in our community.
Hepatitis A can be spread through contaminated food or water. It can also be spread by having sexual contact or sharing drugs with someone who is infected. Those most at risk include: travelers to areas with high or intermediate rates of Hepatitis A; men who have sex with men; users of injection and non-injection illegal drugs; people with chronic liver disease; household members (or other close contacts) and caregivers of infected persons.
Symptoms of Hepatitis A infection include nausea, vomiting, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, dark urine, light colored stools, and jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes). Symptoms usually appear over a number of days and last less than two months; however, some individuals can be ill for as long as six months. Hepatitis A can sometimes cause liver failure and death.
To prevent the spread of Hepatitis A infection:
- Wash hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom or changing diapers and before handling food.
- Obtain Hepatitis A vaccine.
- Do not consume raw surface water. Filter and properly treat creek, spring, river, any other surface water source prior to consuming.
- Use your own eating utensils and toothbrush.
- Avoid drinking from the same container or straw of infected people.
Individuals are encouraged to check their Hepatitis A vaccination status and talk to their health care providers regarding Hepatitis A vaccine and their risks regarding Hepatitis A infection.
To obtain Hepatitis A vaccine, contact your health care provider, local health clinic, insurance plan, pharmacy or local health department.
For more information visit Trinity County Public Health or call 530-623-8209.
For additional information on how to treat your water, visit Trinity County Environmental Health or call 530-623-1459. You may also visit the EPA Surface Water Treatment Rules.
Resources:
Hepatitis A Questions and Answers for the Public (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)