Public health officials are investigating a spike in hepatitis A cases in north Alabama.
The Alabama Department of Public Health announced Wednesday that it is investigating an increase in hepatitis A cases in Jackson County. Health officials say the outbreak may have also spread to surrounding counties.
Public health officials are urging people at the highest risk of infection, including those who use illegal drugs and those who are homeless, to be vaccinated against the disease.
Hepatitis A is transmitted by oral contact with fecal matter. It attacks the liver and causes symptoms including fever, headache, fatigue, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and jaundice.
Health officials say hepatitis A can spread easily if good hand-washing practices are not observed.
