Springfield-Greene County Health Department officials say there’s been an increase in Hepatitis A in recent weeks, and they want to be sure the public knows the signs and symptoms of the illness.
According to the health department, there have been 25 Hepatitis A cases in Greene County since April.
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection that can range from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a severe illness lasting several months. It’s easily transmitted via person-to-person contact.
Prevention includes getting vaccinated and practicing good hand hygiene. Wash hands frequently but especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers and before preparing or eating food.
According to the health department, food service workers need to know the signs and symptoms of the illness and avoid working while sick. Franklin and Douglas Counties have conducted mass vaccination clinics in recent months after food service workers potentially exposed thousands to the illness, officials say. There hasn’t been a case of Hepatitis A recently in a food service worker in Greene County.
Symptoms of Hepatitis A include jaundice, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, light-colored bowel movements and joint pain.
Find more information at health.springfieldmo.gov/HepA.
