The hepatitis A outbreak in Hawaii has now sickened 135 people, according to the latest update from the Hawaii Department of Health. Forty-two new cases have been identified since July 26, 2016. All of the ill persons have been adults. Thirty-nine people have been hospitalized because their illnesses are so severe. The latest findings of the investigation suggest that the source of the outbreak is on the island of Oahu. Seven of those sickened live on the islands of Hawaii, Kauai, and Maui. The dates of illness onset range from July 12, 2016 to July 24, 2016. Anyone who is in contact with those who have this illness should talk to their doctor about receiving a vaccination against hepatitis A. Shots are only effective if given within two weeks of exposure. A "contact" is all … [Read more...]
Hawaii Hepatitis A Outbreak Grows; Another Food Worker Diagnosed
The Hawaii Department of Health has updated its investigation into the hepatitis A outbreak in that state. Now 93 people are sick with the viral infection. And another food handler on the island was diagnosed with the disease. Officials have still not identified the source of the outbreak. This illness has a long incubation period of two weeks to a month, and patients are often not able to remember the foods they consumed or where they ate during the exposure period. Healthcare workers are informed to notify the HDOH immediately if they think a patient has hepatitis A. As of July 26, 2016, 19 new cases of hepatitis A have been diagnosed. All of the cases have been in adults. Of the 93 people sickened, 29 have been hospitalized because their illness is so severe. The illness onset … [Read more...]
Second Hawaii Food Worker Diagnosed with Hepatitis A
The Hawaii State Department of Health issued a press release that confirms a second case of hepatitis A in a food workers. That person worked at the Taco Bell restaurant in Waipio at 94-790 Ukee Street. There is a hepatitis A outbreak in Hawaii that has sickened at least 52 people; now 53. State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park said in a statement, "it is important to note that neither the Waikele Baskin-Robbins nor the Waipio Taco Bell have been identified as the source of infection for this outbreak. These are merely places where the victims were employed. The likelihood that patrons of these food establishments will become infected is very low, but to prevent possible additional cases, we are notifying the public so they may seek advice and help from their healthcare … [Read more...]
