This stuff always gives me the heebie-geebies, but it's happening right here in our area whether we like it or not, so as they say knowledge is power. We have a Hepatitis A outbreak going on in Southern Idaho right now. Here's what you need to know. 

First off, if you aren't familiar with Hepatitis A, it's super serious. Most people who contract Hepatitis A get so sick that they end up hospitalized.

According to idahonews.com, 12 cases have been reported in Southern Idaho just so far this year, compared to last year where we saw 8 cases of Hepatitis A over a 12-month period.

Hepatitis A affects the liver and can be spread by people not washing their hands properly, eating or drinking contaminated food, having sex or being really close to a person who has been infected, or through recreational drug use.

The part of the population that is at the greatest risk are people who use drugs, people who have unprotected sex, and people with chronic liver disease. Not to stereotype, but statistically, Hepatitis A is often seen within the homeless community.

Luckily, there is a vaccine that can protect you from Hepatitis A, so make sure that you are up to date on all of your vaccinations and you will lower your risk significantly.

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