Hep A cases on rise
HEPATITIS A infections are increasing in the Barwon area with eight cases reported this year compared to only one case last year.
Barwon Health Director of Infectious Disease, Professor Eugene Athan, said the best prevention for hepatitis A was vaccination.
“The vaccine is very effec- tive and is recommended if you plan to travel, work in healthcare or in childcare,” Prof. Athan said.
“If people think they might be at risk, talk to your doctor about getting a vaccine. If you develop fever, jaundice and yellow eyes, see a doctor.”
Men who have sex with men have been also warned to be aware of hepatitis A symptoms and get vaccinated following a recent outbreak in other parts of Australia.
Victoria’s Deputy Chief Health Officer Dr Brett Sutton said men who had recently travelled to Sydney, Europe or the USA were at higher risk of infection.
“There has been an outbreak of 18 cases of hepatitis A in Sydney since late July, with several cases reporting men who have sex with men (MSM),” Dr Sutton said.
“In Victoria there have been four cases of hepatitis A this year in travellers from Europe who have reported MSM sexual activity.”
The disease affects the liver and symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, fever, weakness, chills and dark urine.
Hepatitis A is common in some particular countries and it can be spread through sexual activity or contaminated water and food.