Colombia: Epidemiological alert is issued in Medellín due to an unusual increase in hepatitis A
Since January 1st and to date, 431 cases of hepatitis A have been reported in the District, that is, an increase of 230% compared to the same period of the previous year in which 179 were reported. This disease affects the liver causing its inflammation.
The main transmission mechanism is through water, food or objects contaminated with the virus that come into contact with the mouth, which is why it is more common when there are inadequate hygienic and sanitary conditions. There are other less frequent forms of transmission, among which the use of intravenous drugs and blood transfusion stand out; the latter, although rarely reported, can occur when the donor is in the incubation period.
In this regard, the Secretary of Health, Natalia López Delgado, assured: " Hepatitis A is an infection that attacks the liver, it can turn the skin yellow, cause fever or abdominal pain and the fecal matter changes color (it becomes a little more clear), as well as urine can become darker. Given these symptoms, it is important to consult. To date we have more than 400 cases of which 33% have required hospitalization .”
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Anyone who has not been vaccinated or who has previously been infected with hepatitis A is susceptible to getting sick at any time. In Medellín, the vaccine has been administered free of charge since 2012, so girls and boys under 12 years of age who are vaccinated are less likely to acquire the pathology. The vaccine is available at the basic IPS and at the 72 immunization points in the District.
“ To avoid it we must be vaccinated. All children under 12 years of age should have the dose; and at home, rigorous hand hygiene must be practiced. If people are sick, they should not prepare food and be isolated, and if we are going to eat on the street, choose a place that has good hygienic-sanitary conditions ,” added the secretary.