On Friday, public health officials have declared ‘Hepatitis A’ outbreak in Martin County after confirming 13 cases of the virus.
The declaration came after a couple who were in their sixties died due to complications from Hepatitis A at their home in Palm City in March.
Public health officials said they have not yet quarantined the source of the outbreak. They said Hepatitis A cases started to surface earlier this year.
On Monday, Martin County officials said it has become a high-risk area after confirming five new cases of Hepatitis A.
So far, 1200 cases of Hepatitis A have been diagnosed in Florida, with eight deaths.
According to the Martin County Health Department, Hepatitis A is a contagious disease and usually spreads from one person to another through objects, food and drink that are contaminated by feces of a person carrying the virus.
Health officials have advised people to wash their hands with soap and warm water, which is probably the best way to avert the spread of Hepatitis A.
Also, the experts have recommended consulting with a health care provider about vaccination if you are concerned. If you suspect any signs of Hepatitis A, immediately seek medical attention.
The signs and symptoms of Hepatitis A include nausea and vomiting, stomach pain, yellow skin, loss of appetite, pain in joints, and dark-colored urine. The Health Department said people with Hepatitis A must get plenty of rest, eat healthy food, and drink plenty of fluids.
