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With 54 cases since January, Marion ranks fifth in the state for the most confirmed cases.
The Florida Department of Health, in Marion County, reports a sharp increase in the number of infections by hepatitis A, which currently ranks fifth among the state's counties.
Since January, the DOH has confirmed 54 cases of the highly contagious disease, which affects the liver. This compares to a single confirmed case in the county every year between 2015 and 2017, according to local statistics.
"Up to now, about 70% of our cases involved substance abuse, another group that is vulnerable to hepatitis A includes homeless people, and we have a significant number of residents who are unstably housed or who are homeless. homeless, "according to the local health service.
Although hepatitis A does not cause long-term liver damage, symptoms can last for weeks or even months. The infection causes fatigue, sudden nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain in the upper right chest, fever, yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, clay-colored bowel movements and dark colored urine, loss of appetite, joint pain and intense itching.
According to Mayoclinic.org, the virus spreads through feces and even in tiny amounts in food, water or objects.
Poor personal hygiene and sanitation are the main causes of contamination. People who use illegal drugs, those who are homeless, who are HIV-positive or homosexual are at a higher risk of contracting the disease.
The best way to prevent the spread of the virus is to wash your hands thoroughly after each use of the bathroom and before preparing or handling food or drink. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not destroy the virus.
Vaccination is the best way to prevent infection. The vaccine requires two doses, six months apart. The first dose provides protection of about 95%.
The health department will organize a free vaccination clinic at the wheel from 10 to 14 hours. April 27 at the main office at 1801 SE 32nd Ave., Ocala. Residents can also visit the office during regular business hours Monday through Friday to get free vaccinations against hepatitis A.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, current epidemics are continuing across the country, including Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Ohio, the United States. Indiana, Illinois and Michigan.
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