"Health Department Urges Vaccination and Handwashing Following Two Confirmed Hepatitis A Cases in Washtenaw County"

Health officials in Washtenaw County, Michigan, have confirmed two cases of hepatitis A and are urging community members to get vaccinated and practice good handwashing to prevent the spread of the virus. The cases are unrelated and likely contracted during international travel. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, jaundice, and stomach pain, and vaccination is recommended for adults and children. Hand sanitizer is not effective against the virus, and individuals at higher risk, such as drug users, homeless individuals, and men who have sex with men, are encouraged to get vaccinated. Wastewater surveillance has shown an increase in hepatitis A virus detection, indicating the need for increased vigilance.