City News Service
An increase in the number of hepatitis A cases reported this year in Los Angeles County prompted health officials last week to remind people to thoroughly wash their produce to prevent the spread of the disease.
Thirteen diners at a restaurant were infected with hepatitis A in September. One month later, 19 people were infected after eating contaminated lettuce at a catered event, health officials said.
In October, there were 32 reported cases of hepatitis A in Los Angeles County, compared to five 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.
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.