Palm Beach County deemed “at risk” for Hepatitis A…what now?
April 12, 2019What does it mean?
The County of Palm Beach has reported an increasing number of Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection. At this time, Palm Beach and Martin counties both have become high-risk zones for Hepatitis A, state officials have determined. Officials have reported 22 cases confirmed in the two counties. Since January 2018, up to March 23, 2019 there have been 1166 cases of HAV infection reported statewide.
Hepatitis A (HAV)
Hepatitis means “inflammation of the liver”. Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by a type of virus. Hepatitis A is mostly contracted when a person eats food or drinks water that is contaminated with the virus, or has close contact with a person who is infected. Hepatitis A is present in the stools as early as 1 to 2 weeks before a person develops the illness.
Prevention – What can you do?
As a pediatrician, I see all the time kids that never seem to come down with any sickness, but others, seem to be magnets to everything going around. Studies have agreed that teaching your kids smart and healthy habits and choices early in life play a big role in prevention. Regular hand-washing dramatically reduces the passing of respiratory and gastrointestinal illness. Get your kids in the habit of scrubbing up before and after they eat, at bathroom stops, and after they leave preschool or day care.
Avoiding touching the face can be very difficult, especially with preschoolers (I know firsthand). Most viruses enter the body through the nose, eyes, and mouth, so help your child keep her/his hands away from those areas. Do not share personal items like straws, cup, or toothbrush. Remember that, getting use to these habits starts at home!
The infection can be spread between children particularly in child care settings. It is a great time to be sure caregivers are following good hygiene protocols with extra precautions when changing diapers and preparing for snack/lunch.
Hepatitis A is a preventable disease since a vaccine is available. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends Hepatitis A vaccination for all children starting at age 1 year. It also has additional recommendations for the vaccines for the following persons.
It is unlikely that potable water in Palm Beach is a source but, wash fruits and vegetables right before eating.
Signs and Symptoms
Hepatitis symptoms tend to be “flu like”, such as fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and tiredness, sometimes with pain or tenderness of the liver (in the right upper abdomen). Hepatitis A infection is also associated with jaundice, a yellow discoloration of the skin and on the white of the eyes. Also, urine and stools usually turn dark orange.
When to call your Pediatrician
If you suspect your child has developed any of the symptoms or has had contact with someone who has been confirmed with hepatitis, call your pediatricians office. Do Not give acetaminophen without talking to your pediatrician first because there could be a risk of toxicity and the liver may not be fully functioning. You may want to discuss also reevaluating the dosages of any other medicines your child is taking.
Proactive
This is not a time to be alarmed, especially if your child was vaccinated. This should remind us the smart way of living is promoting healthy choices! We all play a role in keeping our community healthy by reinforcing prevention. Hope to see you soon but, for Well Child Appointments only!! 😉
by: Lizaida Medina Candelaria, MD FAAP
Dr. Medina is a Board Certified Pediatrician and an active member of the AAP and Palm Beach Pediatric Society.
Lizaida Medina Candelaria. MD
SuperKids Pediatrics
9121 N Military Trail, Ste 102
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Phone: 561-619-2460
