Data Source: Macomb County Health Department Communicable Disease Summary

*Note: data for 2019 and 2020 are suppressed to protect confidentiality.

Confirmed cases of hepatitis A.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in an average year, there are approximately 2800 new cases of hepatitis A nationwide. Since August 1, 2016, Michigan has seen more than 900 cases of hepatitis A (data as of 11/2019.)  Macomb County has been affected by this outbreak.  In 2017 and 2018 more than 200 cases of hepatitis A in Macomb County have been linked to the outbreak.  This is in sharp contrast to the average of 5-10 cases of hepatitis A in previous years.  Data shown in the graph above highlights the significant increase in hepatitis A cases.  

In addition to the spike in hepatitis A cases, over 80% of cases during the outbreak required hospitalization, more than 50% had documented substance abuse, and at least one-third of cases had a history of hepatitis C infection. 

Prevention and vaccination can protect residents.  

• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A.
• Wash hands after using the restroom and before eating or preparing meals for yourself or others.
• Use your own towels, toothbrushes, and eating utensils.
• Do not have sex with someone who has hepatitis A infection.
• Do not share food, drinks, drugs, or smokes with other people.
• If you think you may have hepatitis A, see your medical provider.
• If you have hepatitis A, please cooperate with Macomb County Health Department to help protect others.

Hepatitis A can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine. Stop the spread of this infection.

Who should get the hepatitis A vaccine?

• Persons who are homeless.
• Persons who are incarcerated.
• Persons who use the injection and non-injection illegal drugs.
• Persons who work with the high-risk populations listed above.
• Persons who have close contact, care for or live with someone who has HAV.
• Persons who have sexual activities with someone who has HAV.
• Men who have sex with men.
• Food handlers.
• Healthcare workers.
• Travelers to countries with high or medium rates of HAV.
• Persons with chronic liver disease, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C.*
• Persons with clotting factor disorders.
• Any person who is concerned about hepatitis A exposure and wants to be immune.

*Note: individuals with chronic liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis and hepatitis C) may not be at increased risk of getting hepatitis A infections, but are at increased risk of having poor outcomes if they are infected with HAV.

Hepatitis A vaccine is available at all of our health service centers.  Two doses are required 6 months apart for full immunity.  Clinic hours, locations, and days of service can be found on the MCHD Immunization Clinic web page.  If you (or someone you know) do not have health insurance, you may qualify for free or low-cost vaccines. Talk with the health department to find out if you qualify,  please call the Immunization Clinic at 586-469-5372.