Hepatitis A Outbreak Linked To Lettuce
December 1, 2005
LOS ANGELES - County health officials issued a warning Thursday in the wake of two hepatitis A outbreaks. Video
Health officials said all produce should be washed thoroughly before consumption. The cases are connected to lettuce.
The warning comes after increases in hepatitis A cases in September and October.
Nineteen people were infected at a catered event. Thirteen people contracted the illness at a restaurant.
The county said 32 other cases reported in October were not part of the outbreak. Five cases were reported in October 2004.
"A lot of cases were originally in the homeless population but it seems to be spreading out," said Dr. Jonathan Fielding, county public health director. "We don't know all the answers."
Unwashed produce can transmit hepatitis A, E coli and salmonella.
"All produce -- even those that come pre-packaged and labeled as having been washed -- should be rinsed in cold running water," Fielding said.
Officials said they are "fairly certain" the lettuce became contaminated at its source, not where it was served.
Officials said produce should be washed thoroughly with cold water. They also recommended using a brush or colander.
Investigators said they have not determined the farm at which the lettuce was harvested.
The health department said there does not appear to be ongoing transmission of the disease.
Hepatitis A is usually spread from person to person through a fecal-oral route. Thoroughly washing hands with soap and hot water after using the bathroom and before handling food can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Adults and children can also protect themselves by getting immunized, Fielding said.
Symptoms of the disease include fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, jaundice, nausea, loss of appetite and vomiting.
