Infections caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV) occur sporadically across Canada. Two recent outbreaks have been reported in Nova Scotia.
An article appearing in the Halifax newspaper "Mail Star" (Friday, September 22, 2006) described two cases of Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection in Sydney, Cape Breton. The cases involved a man and a young girl. Although details of the source of infection were not known, a common source of infection is suspected.
Previous to these HAV cases, the last Hepatitis A cases were related to an outbreak in Sackville, a community outside Halifax, between July and August, 2006. Dozens of people experienced flu-like symptoms following a community barbeque.
Infection due to the Hepatitis A virus is more often associated with travel to developing countries where foodborne and waterborne infections are common. However, sporadic cases and outbreaks do occur in North America - often spread through households, day-cares, long-term-care facilities and schools through close personal contact, or through food contamination associated with infected food handlers.
In the U.S., HAV is the seventh most commonly reported infectious disease, affecting approximately 150,000 people each year.
In Canada, 1,000 to 3,000 cases are reported each year (Health Canada) with reported cases varying between provinces and territories. Reported cases are highest in British Columbia.
The incidence of HAV in Nova Scotia is approximately 1 case per 100,000 people.
For more information on Hepatitis A, check in later in the week for an article discussing symptoms, transmission and prevention.
