The Florida Department of Health noted an increase in hepatitis A cases in Florida starting in the Fall of 2021.
As of May 14, 2022, Florida has reported a total of 175 hepatitis A cases in residents since September 26, 2021.
The majority are males with 145 cases (83%), and 73 (42%) identify as gay and bisexual men, or MSM. Case interviews and genetic sequencing has linked 31 cases in the central Florida region. Of the 31 cases, 23 identify as gay or bisexual men, or MSM.
No deaths have been reported.
Officials recommend the following groups consider vaccination with hepatitis A vaccine during the outbreak. Gay and bisexual men, or MSM, who are:
- Experiencing homelessness or unstable housing.
- Using illicit recreational drugs.
- Wanting protection (immunity) from the virus.
- Diagnosed with chronic or long-term liver disease, including hepatitis B or C.
- Age 60 or older and have a serious underlying medical condition.
- Diagnosed with a clotting-factor disorder.
Related:
- Florida: Monkeypox case reported in Broward County, Linked to travel
- Florida: Orange County health officials warn of Naegleria fowleri as summer approaches
