5 confirmed cases of Hep A in Seneca County

The Seneca County Health Department will be holding the final Hepatitis A Vaccination Clinic at the Seneca County Office Building 3rd Floor, Board of Supervisor’s Room on Thursday from Noon-4:00 pm. There are currently five confirmed cases of hepatitis A in Seneca County all of which are known to be close contacts. The investigation is continuing. The following individuals should receive treatment at the clinic: Individuals who consumed cold foods from Mark’s Pizzeria on November 19, 2015 through November 28, 2015 and close personal contacts of a confirmed case. Close personal contacts include household members and sexual contacts as well as persons who have shared illicit drugs with someone diagnosed with Hepatitis A.Individuals who may have been exposed but were unable to receive treatment, or those who choose not to receive treatment, are advised to monitor themselves for signs and symptoms of Hepatitis A infection over the next 4-6 weeks. Symptoms of Hepatitis A infection include fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice. Individuals who develop signs and symptoms should contact their healthcare provider. The best way to prevent Hepatitis A is by getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene. Simply washing your hands well and often can help protect you from infection with a number of viruses and bacteria. Wash after using the bathroom, before preparing food or eating, and after changing a child’s diaper. In addition, do not share towels, eating utensils, toothbrushes or injection drugs. If you have received immunizations at one of the Seneca County Health Department clinics, you are reminded that you should receive a second dose of Hepatitis A vaccine in six months in order to achieve full immunity. You should contact your primary care physician to arrange to receive the immunization.For more information talk with your healthcare provider, visit www.co.seneca.ny.us/ or call the Seneca County Health Department at (315) 539-1920 or the NYS Department of Health Hotline at 1-844-364-6397.