Fifth Person Dies In San Diego County Hepatitis A Outbreak

SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CA – A fifth person has died from a hepatitis A outbreak in San Diego County, health officials announced Wednesday.

According to the County Health and Human Services Agency, 228 cases have been reported, with 161 people hospitalized during the outbreak.

Public health investigators continue to evaluate cases, but most of those who have become ill are either homeless and/or illicit drug users, according to the agency. In fact, people who are either homeless and/or illicit drug users account for at least seven in 10 of the illnesses, and just over one in five also have hepatitis C.

Hepatitis A is most commonly spread person-to-person through the fecal-oral route. The disease can be prevented by getting vaccinated. So far, officials said no common food, drink or drug source has been identified as the cause.

“It is imperative that anyone at risk for hepatitis A get vaccinated,” said county public health officer Dr. Wilma Wooten. “We cannot stress this enough – get vaccinated and make sure you wash your hands after going to the bathroom.

“Lives are at risk. Protect yourself, your family and the community.”

In an effort to reach those most at risk, the county has been conducting vaccination clinics in the community and working with local agencies, including homeless outreach and faith-based community organizations, substance use treatment providers, hospital emergency departments, jails and probation facilities.

Because of the local outbreak, individuals who work closely with homeless people and illicit drug users on a frequent and ongoing basis, such as those who work or volunteer at homeless services agencies, are now recommended to get the hepatitis A vaccine, if they are not already vaccinated.

County health officials said symptoms of hepatitis A include jaundice, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine and light-colored stools. Symptoms usually appear over several days and last less than two months. However, some people can be ill for as long as six months. Hepatitis A can also sometimes cause liver failure and death, according to the agency.

Hepatitis A vaccines are available at doctors’ offices and clinics, as well as at some retail pharmacies. People without medical insurance can go to a county public health center to get vaccinated. For a list of locations, call 211 or visit www.sdiz.org.

See Also:

San Diego County Hepatitis A Outbreak Linked To Santa Cruz Strain

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