Hawaii News Now reports that the State Health Department has confirmed another case of Hepatitis A in a State Department of Transportation employee, raising the number of confirmed cases to 135.
The Department of Health said on Monday that it is getting closer to finding out what is causing the outbreak.
“The indications are that whatever it is, this is not a fresh product its probably something that keeps for a while so frozen or dried or something,” State epidemiologist, Dr. Sarah Park said.
All Department of Transportation employees, who may have been exposed have been contacted are being offered vaccinations.
Here are some suggestions for the 135 (or more) sickened that I am sure HDOH officials are already using:
Be cooperative – hepatitis A illnesses can last 2 – 6 months and victims are certainly not feeling their best, but their cooperation is vital.
Thinking about what you ate or drank and where may well not be that productive – trying to recall what you ate or drank several weeks ago is difficult – I can hardly recall what I ate or drank a few days ago – however, try.
Focus on where you have been eating and drinking in the 2 – 6 weeks prior to becoming ill – at home or out. Check your calendar, phone records and social media like Facebook and Twitter.
Pull your credit and debit card purchases as well as any accounts you have at grocery stores or restaurants.
As friends, co-workers or family what they might recall that you did over that same time.
Keep in contact with HDOH. Its resources are stretched and it needs your support and assistance.
