United States: Hepatitis A outbreak in California leaves 18 dead as of Oct. 13

Event

A hepatitis A outbreak in California has left at least 18 people dead in San Diego county as of Friday, October 13. The outbreak is now considered the largest example of person-to-person hepatitis A transmission in the United States since the vaccine became available in 1996; in total, 576 cases have been reported in the state as of October 13, with 490 reported in San Diego county since March, 71 in Santa Cruz county since April, and eight in Los Angeles county. Among the most severely affected by the outbreak are those with poor access to sanitation, including the homeless and injection drug users. California Governor Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency on Friday to more quickly acquire vaccines to combat the hepatitis A outbreak.

Context

Hepatitis A is typically transmitted via food and water that has been contaminated by human fecal material containing the virus. The incubation period is between 15 and 50 days. In approximately 90 percent of cases the infected person presents no symptoms. In cases where symptoms are present, the patient may display flu-like symptoms, long-term fatigue (lasting weeks or months), headaches, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, hives, and muscle and joint pain. In some cases, the individual may complain of discomfort in the upper right portion of the abdomen (liver). A gradual yellowing of the skin may also be observed, which can last up to a month. Given that symptoms of hepatitis A are rare and easily confused with other illnesses, a doctor should be consulted to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

Advice

Individuals in or considering travel to the affected regions in California are advised to contact their medical provider regarding vaccination. To reduce exposure to the virus, exercise proper personal hygiene and food sanitation measures (e.g., wash hands regularly, and consume clean water and food).