YPSILANTI, Mich., June 11, 2019 – The Hepatitis A outbreak is ongoing in Michigan and has infected 20 adults in Washtenaw County. While there are no new cases in Washtenaw, the Health Department continues to recommend good handwashing and vaccination to prevent infection. Hand sanitizer does not kill the hepatitis A virus.
Pop-up vaccination clinics have been organized around Washtenaw County. Residents who are uninsured, have Medicaid, or are at higher risk of exposure can receive the vaccination at no additional charge. Clinics are at the following locations:
- Ann Arbor District Library (downtown location) – June 12, 1-3 p.m.
- Miller Manor – July 23, 1-2 p.m.
Vaccination is also available at the Health Department in Ypsilanti. Call 734-544-6700 to schedule. If you have health insurance, please contact your health care provider.
Washtenaw County Health Department reminds everyone about the importance of washing their hands when enjoying summer activities and events, especially after using the restroom and before eating. Good handwashing with soap and water can prevent the spread of hepatitis A and other illnesses. Only using hand sanitizer will not kill the hepatitis A virus.
If you are hosting a public event and have questions about handwashing, sanitation, or food safety, please contact our Environmental Health Division at 734-222-3800 or zeebcss@washtenaw.org. We can help withhandwashing signage or, in some cases, handwashing stations for events.
Hepatitis A is a serious, highly contagious liver disease. The virus is found in the feces (poop) of people with hepatitis A. It is spread by eating contaminated food or water, during sex, or by living with an infected person.
Across Michigan, there have been 914 cases of hepatitis A associated with the current outbreak as of June 5, 2019. Among these cases, there have been 734 hospitalizations and 28 deaths. To learn more visitwww.washtenaw.org/StopHepA.
Washtenaw County Health Department
The Washtenaw County Health Department promotes health and works to prevent disease and injury in our community. Our mission is to assure, in partnership with the community, the conditions necessary for people to live healthy lives through prevention and protection programs.
The Washtenaw County Health Department has achieved national accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board. Visit us at washtenaw.org/health or call 734-544-6700.
