Our Vision - Healthy People

November 9, 2017

Hepatitis A and how to prevent infection

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. More information about the hepatitis A southeast Michigan outbreak is located at www.michigan.gov/hepatitisAoutbreak. 

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. 

What is hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a serious, highly contagious liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). HAV is found in the feces (poop) 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. 

How is it spread?

The hepatitis A virus is spread by the fecal-oral route (ingesting contaminated food or water). Hepatitis A is not spread by sneezes or coughs. 

What are the symptoms? nausea and vomiting belly pain feeling tired 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. 

Who is at risk?

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. 

 How can hepatitis A infection be prevented?

• Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water after using the bathroom or changing a diaper and before eating or preparing food. 
• Do not share towels, toothbrushes and eating utensils. 
• Get vaccinated with two doses of Hepatitis A vaccine. Contact your primary care physician for availability. 

Learn more at www.cdc.gov/hepatitis 

Media Contact:

Kristina Wieghmink
kwieghmink@miottawa.org
(616) 494-5597

Ottawa County Department of Public Health is dedicated to protecting health and promoting quality of life through prevention and control of disease, injury and disability. We help assure conditions in which all people can achieve optimum health, so residents may benefit from using our evidence based public health programs and services. Public Health has a vital role in all of our lives, and empowers communities with the necessary tools, knowledge, resources and opportunities to make lasting change.

www.miOttawa.org/miHealth

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