Hepatitis outbreaks among the homeless

[Pea-n-Me]

Thoughts about this public health issue?

http://www.dailynews.com/2017/09/19/la-county-has-its-own-hepatitis-a-outbreak/

This video highlights the problem.

http://www.kgw.com/news/local/hepatitis-a-outbreak-in-california-draws-concern-here/477436896

 

[tasha99]

One theory is this is an unintended consequence of the plastic bag ban. If it is, it's an interesting example of how one well intentioned plan can lead to disaster. They need more public bathrooms, that's for sure.

Also, are there downsides to the Hep A vaccine?** Maybe there should be some sort of outreach to the homeless for free shots (they mentioned vaccines, but for homeless people, I'd be setting up a tent right next to a homeless camp or heavily populated by homeless people area and giving free food out as well.)

Edited to add: I ask this because I wonder if I'm vaccinated and if I should be. I work in health care and know I've had the Hep B vaccine, but I don't recall Hep A. I'm 50, so I didn't get this as a kid.