ABERDEEN - The Grays Harbor County Public Health and Social Services Department is offering a limited supply of free Hepatitis A vaccine to adults 19 years of age and older. There is enough vaccine for approximately 150 persons. Two doses, six months apart, are needed for maximum coverage. Both doses will be provided on a first-come first-served basis. Hepatitis A is a virus that causes serious liver disease. The virus is usually spread by close personal contact with an infected person, or by eating food or drinking water contaminated with it. Transmission generally occurs due to poor hygiene or lack of sanitation. Because Hepatitis A can spread through food by infected food workers, the County's Environmental Health division is recommending that those who work in food service get vaccinated. Friday, June 19, 2009 8:30-11:30 AM & 1:30-4:00
The vaccine is also recommended for the following individuals: - Persons traveling to countries where the virus is prevalent (Central or South America, Mexico, Asia (except Japan), Africa and eastern Europe
- Men who have sex with men
- Persons who use street drugs
- Persons with chronic liver disease
These groups are encouraged to get vaccinated, but any adult 19 years of age or older may take advantage of this one-time offer. Symptoms of Hepatitis A include nausea, abdominal pain, weakness, fever and jaundice. In some cases liver damage may occur. Symptoms can last from 1 week to several months. The vaccine will be available at a special clinic to be held in the County's Pearsall Building at 2109 Sumner Avenue in Aberdeen on a walk-in basis (no appointment necessary):
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