San Diego County Hepatitis A Outbreak: Fourth Person Dies

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

According to the County Health and Human Services Agency, 160 cases have been reported, with 120 people hospitalized during the outbreak.

Public health investigators are still evaluating cases, but most of those who have become ill are either homeless and/or illicit drug users, according to the agency. Additionally, 12 hepatitis A cases have been reported in people who were incarcerated in county detention facilities.

So far, no common food, drink or drug source has been identified as the cause.

In an effort to reach those most at risk, the county has been conducting vaccination clinics in the community and working with agencies such as local 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.

“We strongly encourage people who are at risk to check with their healthcare providers and get vaccinated for hepatitis A,” said county public health officer Dr. Wilma Wooten. “The two best ways to prevent hepatitis A are vaccination and good hand hygiene, which means washing your hands after using a restroom and before preparing or eating meals.”

Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated food or water, sexual contact or shared drug paraphernalia. The disease can be prevented by getting vaccinated.

County health officials said it could take up to 50 days after exposure to develop symptoms, which 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.

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