Health officials in Washtenaw County are urging residents to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated against hepatitis A, following the confirmation of two cases likely contracted from international travel. According to the Detroit News, a recent spike in the virus detection was observed in Ann Arbor's wastewater in late January, indicating potential unreported cases.
Disease trackers are concerned that the uptick may be due to pre-diagnosed patients shedding the virus or hint at yet-undiscovered infections. Laura Bauman, epidemiology program manager at the Washtenaw County Health Department, emphasized to the Detroit News the preventable nature of the disease, "We want everyone to know that the spread of this potentially serious illness is preventable through vaccination and good handwashing." The two new cases bring the total reported in the county to eight since 2020, as per the county's health department statement.
Vaccinations are being recommended not just for the general public but also for higher risk groups which include international travelers, healthcare workers, and the homeless. Medicaid recipients and uninsured individuals can arrange vaccinations through the county health department, while those with insurance are advised to contact their doctors or pharmacists. Washtenaw health officials have issued a reminder that thorough handwashing with soap and water is crucial in preventing transmission, as hand sanitizers do not to effectively kill the hepatitis A virus.
Symptoms of hepatitis A can manifest as fatigue, poor appetite, stomach pain, and jaundice, among others, with infected individuals capable of spreading the virus even before they appear sick. Highlighting the importance of vaccination, Bauman stated, "The best way to prevent hepatitis A is to get vaccinated," as reported by the county's health department. As the community faces potential exposure, the push for widespread immunization is becoming a more pressing health mandate in Washtenaw County.
