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RICHMOND, Virginia (WHSV) – The Virginia Department of Health is warning people of the increasing number of cases of hepatitis A in the country and in the Commonwealth.
Since the outbreaks were first identified in 2016, more than 15,000 cases and 8,500 hospitalizations have been reported in the United States.
And at the beginning of this year, from January 1, 2019 to April 19, 2019, the number of HAV cases increased by 132% in Virginia compared to 2018.
On April 22, the department reported that 45 cases had been reported in Virginia.
"The increase in the number of HVA cases in Virginia indicates that the Commonwealth is currently experiencing the effects of this national outbreak," said State Health Commissioner Norman Oliver, MD, MA. "We want everyone to know how the infection spreads, to be able to recognize the symptoms and to take steps to prevent the spread of hepatitis A."
Local health services in Virginia, along with community partners, are working to contain the growing number of hepatitis A cases across the country. Prevention efforts have targeted individuals in high-risk groups, such as recently imprisoned, homeless, drug addicts and homosexuals.
Although these groups are at the center of concern, every Virginian is encouraged to receive the hepatitis A vaccine.
The virus causes inflammation of the liver. The classic symptom is jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin or eyes. According to the Ministry of Health, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, joint pain, dark urine and clay-colored stools are d & # 39; 39, other symptoms.
These symptoms appear between 15 and 50 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone infected is encouraged to stay home after work, especially if they work in food services, health care or childcare.
The vaccine is available in many doctors' offices, pharmacies and local health departments. Another important prevention method is frequent hand washing.
For more information on Hepatitis A, you can visit the Virginia Department of Health's website here.
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