DHEC encouraging hepatitis A vaccinations

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The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control is urging groups at high risk of hepatitis A infection to get vaccinated in the face of a steady rise in cases of the virus since last November.

DHEC classified the spread of hepatitis A as an outbreak in May, according to a news release from the organization. The agency has established partnerships with health care providers to offer the vaccine to high-risk groups, including drug users, homeless individuals, incarcerated or recently incarcerated individuals, and men who have sex with men, according to the release.

“It is challenging to control hepatitis A outbreaks if those in risk groups don't seek or have access to immunization services,” Dr. Linda Bell, a physician and state epidemiologist, said. “Many people in high-risk groups cannot or will not visit DHEC clinics. We must go to them.”

Between Nov 1., 2018, and July 19, 225 cases of hepatitis have been reported in S.C., according to the release. Of those cases, 56% reported drug use, 14% were men who have sex with men, 13% were or had been incarcerated and 10% were homeless.

The hepatitis A vaccine is widely available from health care providers, and many pharmacies provide the vaccine without an appointment. DHEC is offering free vaccines to high-risk individuals.

Residents can schedule a vaccination at their local health department by calling 855-472-3432 or visiting www.scdhec.gov/HealthClinics.

“We need organizations and individuals who offer services to these groups to help convince those who need it most to get vaccinated,” Bell said. “We are asking those who operate shelters, drug treatment programs, soup kitchens, jails and prisons, and others who serve or advocate for people in these groups to partner with us.”

For more information, contact a DHEC consultant at 803-898-0861.

While food handlers in restaurants in Lexington County, North Augusta, North Charleston, Aiken and Hilton Head have tested positive for hepatitis A, DHEC said the risk of the virus spreading from an infected employee to restaurant customers is low. The agency said that since the beginning of the outbreak last November, there have been no reports of anyone being infected by eating or drinking at a state restaurant.

A total of nine food handlers, of 4% of reported cases, have tested positive, DHEC said.

“This is not a food-borne outbreak, and the concern is not with the restaurants or the food they serve,” Bell said.

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver disease with symptoms that usually last for several weeks and may require hospitalization. Most of those infected recover completely and do not suffer long-term liver damage, DHEC said.