Health Officials Warn Of An Outbreak Of Hepatitis A In Eight Counties In Arizona

The Arizona Department of Health Services is reporting an outbreak of Hepatitis A that is affecting eight counties in the state, including Navajo and Yavapai counties. Department head Dr. Cara Christ says “this is part of a larger national outbreak that’s being seen in other states.” She adds, “we are at 353 cases among very specific populations.” Christ says high risk people include drug users, the homeless and people who have been recently incarcerated. Hepatitis A is highly contagious, but preventable with a vaccine. Christ says symptoms include: abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin, urine or stool color changes and fever. If you have these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.