Vaccines Can Prevent Hepatitis A

San Diego health officials reported 2 people have died from hepatitis A (Hep A) and 36 people have been hospitalized, according to the County Health and Human Services Agency (CHHSA).

In total, 42 Hep A cases have been reported in the San Diego region since November 2016. This is more than 4 times the monthly average of total Hep A cases, the CHHSA reported.

No common sources of infection have been identified and investigations are still ongoing.

“The County is working closely with the local health community to increase outreach to vulnerable populations to raise awareness and promote hepatitis A vaccination,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer.

“Those at risk are urged to talk to their health care providers and get vaccinated for hepatitis A,” said Dr. Wooten.

According to the Centers of Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC), Hep A is a vaccine-preventable disease. While the Hep A vaccine is recommended as part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule, most adults have not been vaccinated and may be susceptible to the Hep A virus.

Two doses of Hep A vaccine are recommended for:

• All children (first dose of vaccine between 12 months and 23 months of age, and the second dose six to 18 months later)
• Travelers to countries that have higher rates of Hep A (high-risk areas include parts of Africa and Asia, and moderate risk areas include Central and South America, Eastern Europe, and parts of Asia)
• Men who have sex with men
• Users of injection and non-injection illegal drugs
• Homeless people who are living outdoors
• Household or sexual contacts of Hep A patients
• People with chronic liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis B or hepatitis C
• Family members or caregivers of a recent adoptee from countries where Hep A is common
• People who are treated with clotting-factor concentrates

The CDC reports the symptoms of Hep A include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and light-colored stools. Symptoms usually appear over a number of days and last less than two months.

However, some people can be ill for as long as six months. Hep A can sometimes cause liver failure and death.

Risk factors for Hep A infection include living with or having sexual contact with someone who has the virus or sharing injection or non-injection illegal drugs with someone who is infected. The Hep A virus can also be transmitted through contaminated food or water.

If you are planning an international trip, you should check the CDC Travelers’ Health website to see if Hep A vaccination is recommended for your intended destinations.

Most Hep A vaccines are available at many doctors’ offices and clinics and at some retail pharmacies.

The CDC Vaccine Price Lists provides current vaccine contract prices and general information.