Hepatitis A cases confirmed in Alamance County
January 9, 2006
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10776389
BURLINGTON, N.C. - Health officials in Alamance County said they've confirmed five cases of Hepatitis A and are looking at six other possible cases. Two initial cases were confirmed on Dec. 30, and three others were confirmed by Jan. 5, according to a statement from the health department.
Over the weekend, officials said they were notified of another six possible cases.
Hepatitis A is caused by a virus that is passed in the stool of infected persons. Symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, fever and possible yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes. Patients generally become sick 28-30 days after exposure to the virus, though the time can vary.
Officials said anyone experiencing those symptoms should visit a doctor.
None of the infected people worked in food service or child care settings, according to health officials. The cause is being investigated.
Anyone with questions can call (336) 513-5528.
