Prestonsburg, Ky.–The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) has declared an outbreak of acute Hepatitis A with cases in multiple counties in Kentucky.
In total, 31 cases of acute (rapid onset with symptoms of illness) Hepatitis A have been reported throughout Kentucky in 2017, a 50 percent increase above the average of 20 cases per year reported over the past 10 years. Although there are no reported cases of Hepatitis A in our area it is still important to be take preventative measures against it.
Martha Ellis, Director of Nursing (FCHD): “It is important because it is on bordering counties it will be here soon, if it’s there its liable to get here. It’s best to be diligent and to go ahead and make sure that you are vaccinated. We do not have any here in Floyd County, but we want to make sure that we don’t get any cases.”
Gina Porter, Preparedness Coordinator (FCHD): “Some of the important things to remember in reference to Hepatitis and the prevention thereof is washing your hands, avoid contaminated water, make sure you contact your health department for the appropriate vaccinations for children and to use the appropriate protection when cleaning up any type of vomit or fecal matter in the event that you are exposed to that type of situation.”
For more information about Hepatitis A vaccination visit the Floyd County Health departments Facebook page.
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