Hepatitis A is spreading across the state of Florida. Broward County, one of Florida’s most populated counties, is confirming outbreak status. The Broward County Health Department confirmed that at least seven people have been diagnosed with Hepatitis A. Palm Beach County is reporting six incidents. Two weeks ago, a Palm Beach coupled died from Hepatitis A.
Hepatitis A is spread through fecal matter. Symptoms can result in fatigue, jaundice, stomach cramps, and loss of appetite. In past Florida cases, strawberries and raw scallops were the culprit. There are no confirmations over how the current case is spreading.
Florida Department of Health Palm Beach County spokesman Alex Shaw are pushing for people to get vaccinated.
“What is scary is that you can be exposed today and not find out for three or four weeks,” Dr. John Rivas said. “That is what makes it difficult to control and why awareness and washing hands constantly is important.”
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