Outbreaknews.com: Oct 7
Mexican health authorities reported an outbreak of at least 19 cases of hepatitis A in the state of Guanajuanto.
They say most of the cases are linked to primary schools in the city of Leon. The students affected are not allowed to return to school for a period of 15 days according to school officials.
In addition, a single case of the viral disease was detected in the jail of the municipality of Dolores Hidalgo.
Health secretary, Ector Jaime Ramirez Barba said that cases of hepatitis A virus infection are not unusual and everything is being done to control the outbreak and that the situation is under control.
Hepatitis A is a viral infection of the liver. Symptoms may include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and abdominal discomfort. Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, may occur a few days after symptoms appear. Anyone with these symptoms should contact a health care provider. The incubation period, or time between exposure and symptoms, is typically 28 days. It is possible for hepatitis A to be active but not show symptoms for up to 7 days. Symptoms usually last one to two weeks but can last longer. Young children with hepatitis A often have no symptoms.
Hepatitis A is spread person-to-person and through a fecal-oral transmission route, and typically occurs when a person eats food or drinks a beverage contaminated by someone with the virus. The virus is not spread by coughing, sneezing or by casual contact. Severe complications from hepatitis A are rare and occur more often in people who have liver disease or a weakened immune system.
Thorough hand washing after visits to the restroom, before touching food or drink and after changing a diaper are the best way to control the spread of hepatitis A.