Kentucky is currently experiencing a major outbreak of Hepatitis A. Since August 1st 2018 there have been 3,579 confirmed or suspected cases and 22 deaths. Madison County Health Department Public Information Officer Jim Thacker told us that the disease is transferred when an infected person does not properly wash their hands. It is also transferred by unprotected sex or sharing needles.
Jim Thacker also said that the Hepatitis virus is very hardy and can survive for 60 hours with out a host compared to other viruses such as HIV which can only survive for a few minutes on a surface. In addition to hand washing, he said that the hepatitis vaccine is a must for preventing infection. To get your vaccine you just have to go to your local pharmacy or primary care provider. If you are uninsured or in a high risk group the Health Department will provide the vaccine. For more information call the Madison County Health Department at (859) – 523 – 7312 or visit www.cdc.gov/hepatitis.
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