Widespread Community Transmission of Hepatitis A Virus Following an Outbreak at a Local Restaurant-Virginia, September 2021-September 2022

TR Number

Date

2023-04-07

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Abstract

What is already known about this topic? U.S. hepatitis A incidence has been increasing since 2016. What is added by this report? In 2021, a hepatitis A outbreak in Virginia traced to an unvaccinated food handler resulted in 51 cases, 31 hospitalizations, and three deaths. As of September 30, 2022, an additional 98 community hepatitis A cases had been reported in the Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts. What are the implications for public health practice? Public health partnerships with businesses and other community partners (e.g., harm reduction programs) might increase hepatitis A vaccination among persons at risk for this infection, while also reducing the stigmatization of hepatitis A-associated risk factors.

Description

Keywords

Infectious Diseases, Hepatitis A, Foodborne Illness

Citation