Hepatitis A cases confirmed in Cleveland more than doubled in 2018

CLEVELAND, OH (WOIO) - New data from the Cleveland Department of Public Health shows that the number of hepatitis A cases has more than doubled than the previous year.

Thirteen new cases of hepatitis A cases have been reported from Jan. 2018 to Nov. 2018; a 117 percent increase from the same time period in 2017.

The increase of new hepatitis A cases is likely due to an ongoing outbreak in Ohio, the city said.

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver disease that is spread by ingesting food or fluids contaminated with feces. An infection can last for several months with symptoms including fatigue, jaundice, joint pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, dark urine, and pale stool.

To help prevent the spread of hepatitis A, the Cleveland Department of Public Health is offering free vaccines at city health centers.

FACILITY	DAYS	TIME	ADDRESS/PHONE
McCafferty Health Center	Every Monday 1st, 2nd and 4th Wednesday Every 2nd and 4th Thursday	8 - 11 a.m. 8 - 11 a.m., 1 - 4 p.m. 4-7 p.m.	4242 Lorain Ave. (216) 664 - 6603 or (216) 664 - 4120
J Glen Smith Health Center	Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday Every Thursday	4 p.m. – 7 p.m. 8 - 11 a.m.	11100 St. Clair Ave. (216) 664 - 2704 or (216) 664 - 4120