Hepatitis A is a serious, highly contagious liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). HAV is found in the feces (poop) of people with hepatitis A. You can get hepatitis A by eating infected food or water, during sexual intercourse, or just by living with an infected person. Illness can appear 15-50 days after exposure and you can be sick for several weeks. In some cases, people can die. Not all people infected with hepatitis A will get sick, but symptoms can include: 

• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• stomach or belly pain
• fatigue or feeling tired
• nausea or vomiting
• loss of appetite
• dark urine
• pale colored feces (poop)
• joint pain

Hepatitis A is a vaccine-preventable illness. The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended as a part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule, however most adults have not been vaccinated and may be susceptible to the hepatitis A virus. The best way to reduce the risk of getting hepatitis A is to get vaccinated with two doses of Hepatitis A vaccine. You can also reduce the risk of getting or sharing hepatitis A with some simple steps. Wash your hands after going to the bathroom and before preparing meals for yourself and others. Use your own towels, toothbrushes, and eating utensils. Do not have sex with someone who has HAV infection or share food, drinks, or smokes with other people.

Since August 2016 southeastern Michigan has experienced an outbreak of hepatitis A.  Data and background information on the outbreak in Macomb County can be found below.  For data and background information on the entire southeastern Michigan outbreak and corresponding public health response please visit the MDHHS Hepatitis A Outbreak web page.  The Macomb County Health Department (MCHD) has launched a MCHD Hepatitis A Outbreak webpage for residents and providers to get up to date information.