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BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) urged healthcare providers to be vigilant for signs of hepatitis A in patients.
The BPHC was notified of two positive cases of hepatitis A among unsheltered residents on Nov. 17 and Nov. 20. Those who work closely with unsheltered populations and people who use drugs should be on the lookout for more cases.
The hepatitis A virus causes the highly contagious liver infection, commonly spread from person-to-person through the fecal-oral route. Individuals experiencing homelessness and people with injection drug use are particularly at risk due to fecal-contaminated environments.
The BPHC said effective prevention and response methods include “early identification of cases, vaccination, enhanced sanitation processes and education of vulnerable populations.”
To report cases of hepatitis A virus infection, visit the BPHC website.
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