Dr recommends Hepatitis Vaccine

Since September 2017, the Missouri Department of Health and Local Public Health Agencies have received increased reports of hepatitis A linked to an ongoing outbreak in Missouri. No common sources of food, beverages, or drugs have been identified as a potential source of the infection. Transmission appears to be through direct person-to-person contact. Based on current information, persons who use illicit drugs are at increased risk for hepatitis A during this outbreak. Dr Akbar Khan with Mercy Lebanon tells us daycares are also a place where the chance of exposure increases….

Dr Khan said that a person can have Hepatitis A and not even know it…

According to the Department of Health, Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. To prevent contracting the illness, you can get a two step vaccine, and it’s important to thoroughly wash your hands with warm soapy water before eating, or cooking, after using the bathroom, and changing diapers. available for Hep A, and It can range from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a severe illness lasting several months. As of January 21st, 623 cases of hepatitis A virus infection have been linked to the outbreak in Missouri.