Salinas: Stopping the Spread of Hepatitis A in Chinatown
Steps are being taken to stop a Hepatitis A spread in Monterey County. This comes after a homeless man living in Chinatown’s homeless encampment was diagnosed with the illness several months ago.
County health officials believe the homeless man’s case was the first transmission of its kind in Monterey County. The man didn’t travel to any of the other counties facing an outbreak, so it’s believed someone infected him in Salinas.
Hepatitis A is spread when the virus is ingested, after it was contaminated with feces of an infected person.
Because of a lack of clean toilets and hand washing facilities, the homeless are at a higher risk of contracting the illness.
“Personally I’m doing what they said, which is to wash your hands a lot,” Chinatown resident David Cuellar said. “I’m definitely trying not to touch anything, I’m using my elbows, using a piece of paper but ever since this happened, I’ve been very conscious of it. I’m really thinking about what I’m touching, keeping my hands clean.”
But steps are being taken to stop the spread in Chinatown, where a homeless man came down with Hepatitis in September. Signs have been posted around Chinatown, reminding people to wash their hands.
On Wednesday, a Hepatitis A vaccine clinic was held at Dorothy’s Place which is one of many happening in the homeless encampment.
“I have Hepatitis C and I didn’t think that I needed it because I’m not Hepatitis A, and they said, ‘No, it’s better if you just get the shot,'” Chinatown resident Anessa Nix said.
The county received 700 doses several weeks ago not only going to the homeless but the people who work directly with them. However the virus is hardy and could still be lingering on the streets.
Thursday — Salinas Public Works plans to clean up the area ahead of the Chinatown block party this weekend. That includes picking up the garbage and a thorough cleaning to kill the virus.
The symptoms of Hepatitis infections include fever, lack of appetite, nausea and jaundice. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is no specific treatment for the illness but patients should rest, manage nausea and avoid alcohol.
