Demand rises for hepatitis A vaccine as outbreak continues in Metro Detroit

Oakland County to hold vaccination clinic

DETROIT – New cases of hepatitis A continue to pop up across Michigan, leading people to take extra precautions.

Hepatitis A isn't considered an epidemic, but it's become an outbreak worthy of concern in Metro Detroit.

"In 2016, we've almost doubled the amount of cases in 2017," said Leigh-Anne Stafford, of the Oakland County Health Department.

Health officials don't know why there have been so many cases in Michigan.

"The best way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine," Stafford said.

Anyone who eats out often or is in close contact with many other people should get vaccinated, health officials said.

Oakland County will conduct a vaccination clinic Tuesday at the North Oakland Center on Telegraph Road in Pontiac and Wednesday at the South Oakland Center in Southfield.

Food service workers are especially encouraged to get vaccinated since the most recent Metro Detroit cases been in restaurants.

"As we continue to see an increase of food service workers that are confirmed with hepatitis A, we just wanted to get the message out," Stafford said. "With the holidays coming, and people are eating out more, we just want people to be aware."

Residents should check with a doctor to see if they need a hepatitis A vaccination, health officials said.

You can watch Steve Garagiola's full story in the video posted above.


About the Authors:

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.