Important Public Health Alert: Hepatitis A:
The Province of Manitoba has recently reported a Hepatitis A outbreak near the Ontario border. Indigenous Services Canada has also confirmed a Hepatitis A case in a First Nations community in Northern Ontario. This advisory is being shared as a precaution to help lower the risk of exposure.
What is Hepatitis A?:
Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus. The infection usually clears on its own but can be severe, especially in the elderly and those with liver diseases.
How is it spread?:
Transmission occurs by ingesting contaminated food and water prepared by an infected person. It is easily spread through sexual contact or contact with feces of an infected person.
Signs & Symptoms:
Symptoms appear 15-50 days after exposure.
- Fever
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Jaundice
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
Please stay home if you are sick, unless you are seeing your health care provider. Do not prepare food for others until symptoms go away.
Prevention:
Wash hands with soap and water after using the bathroom and before making food. Drink water from a safe and clean drinking supply.
Vaccine:
There is a publicly funded vaccine for Hepatitis A, if eligibility criteria are met ex. outbreak.
If you have any questions, please call the Lawrence Commanda Health Centre at 705-753-3312.
