There is an outbreak of hepatitis A in our area. Hep A is a contagious liver disease. It is found in the feces (poop) of people with Hep A. You can get it by eating contaminated food or water, during sex, or by sharing personal items.

People at high risk for hepatitis A can receive the vaccine AT NO COST from the health department by sharing the code “Campaign18” with staff at the Immunization Clinic.  The clinic is located at 5303 S. Cedar Street in Lansing. For more information or to make an appointment, call (517) 887-4316.

In addition to getting the vaccine, you can reduce your risk by:

• Washing your hands before eating or preparing food
• Thoroughly washing your hands and genitals with soapy water after sex
• Using protection during sex, including oral and anal sex
• Changing condoms between anal and oral sex
• Not sharing sex toys

Hepatitis A is serious and occasionally deadly. In the current outbreak, 80% of those infected have been hospitalized. There is no cure; however, most people get better after several weeks. Hep A symptoms usually appear 2 to 6 weeks after exposure. People who believe they have been exposed to hepatitis A or who have symptoms should contact their health care provider immediately.  

People at high risk for hepatitis A in this outbreak include:

• People who are homeless or transient
• People who use street drugs (injection and non-injection)
• People who were recently incarcerated
• Men who have sex with men