As of December 14, 2018 the Louisiana Office of Public Health was
investigating an outbreak of Hepatitis A throughout the state. The most recent data
indicates there are 25 documented cases in a number of parishes with 5 – 10 cases
being reported in Morehouse parish and less than 5 cases being reported in each of
the following parishes: Ouachita, Allen, Lafayette, Pointe Coupee, West Baton
Rouge, East Baton Rouge, Livingston, Ascension, St. Tammany, and Orleans. Two
weeks ago this outbreak was limited to Morehouse parish, so you can see how
quickly and sporadically it has spread.
Hepatitis A is an extremely contagious virus that affects the liver. Signs and
symptoms can be mild or severe and include: fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea,
vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, diarrhea, clay-colored stool, joint pain and
jaundice. In very rare instances, it can result in death. On average, symptoms of
Hepatitis A last less than 2 months, but can last as long as 6 months. Once exposed
to Hepatitis A, symptoms appear an average of 4 weeks later. There are several
populations at greater risk for Hepatitis A, but considering the recent outbreak we
are all at risk.
The most effective way to prevent Hepatitis A is through a series of
vaccinations. Children typically receive this series around the age of 12 months.
The second most effective way to prevent Hepatitis A is to practice good hand
hygiene, which includes thoroughly washing your hands before and after using the
bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food. If you think you
might have been exposed to Hepatitis A, visit with your healthcare professional and
ask for the vaccine (it will only be effective if given within 2 weeks of exposure). If
you are actively having symptoms of Hepatitis A, see your healthcare provider
immediately.
