Hepatitis A is spreading in Colorado. Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by a virus that can make a person very sick with serious vomiting and diarrhea. This disease can be spread when someone gets the fecal matter (poop) of a person who has hepatitis A into their mouth – even in tiny amounts. This can happen when:
- Eating food that has been prepared by a person with hepatitis A who has not washed their hands after using the bathroom. It is recommended that food services workers be vaccinated.
- Taking care of or cleaning up after a person with hepatitis A and then not washing your hands. It is recommended that childcare provides be vaccinated.
- Having sexual contact with a person who has hepatitis A, even if the person does not seem sick.
You can protect yourself!
- Get vaccinated. Hepatitis A is serious. Call the CSU Health Network at (970) 491-7121 to schedule a vaccination appointment.
- Use condoms or latex barriers during sexual activity.
- Wash hands frequently.