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PRESTONSBURG, Ky. — The Floyd County Health Department, Floyd County Fiscal Court, City of Prestonsburg and local food service providers are coming together in an effort to prevent an outbreak of Hepatitis A in the county.

Although Hepatitis A has not become an issue in Floyd County, plans are being made to reduce the chance of an outbreak.

In an effort to be proactive, officials are encouraging local food service providers to get the Hepatitis vaccine for all employees who are handling food.

“Hep A is not coming from a food source,” said Floyd County Health Department Director Thursa Sloan. “The source is an individual, it’s coming from people. But, when you look at where this vulnerable population of people work, they are working primarily in restaurants and other places.”

Any food service provider who follows this protocol will receive a sticker to display on their entrance. 

“It is not an issue in Floyd County yet,” said Prestonsburg Mayor Les Stapleton. “In working in this partnership with the restaurants and the food handlers, we’re trying to get ahead of this situation.”

Officials are increasing surveillance and vaccinations in an effort to limit the opportunity for exposure to customers.

“They’re looking at whats happening around us and they’re concerned because this is their business,” added Sloan.

For more information, contact the Floyd County Health Department.