In a concerning development, the highly infectious disease hepatitis A has been spreading rapidly through homeless encampments in Portland, according to a report by the Press Herald. The Maine CDC has confirmed a total of 18 cases in the city as of November 20th, thereby meeting the definition of an outbreak.

Most of the cases have been detected within the homeless community, where limited access to clean water for drinking and bathing is cited as a contributing factor, according to advocates for the homeless. However, it is noteworthy that one case was diagnosed in an employee at the Green Elephant Bistro in Portland, underscoring the potential wider impact of the outbreak.

Furthermore, beyond Portland, three hepatitis A cases have been reported in Androscoggin County. An employee at Marcos Italian Restaurant in Lewiston and an employee at Dockside Grill in Falmouth were also diagnosed with the disease over the past two months.

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver disease that can spread through person-to-person contact or by consuming contaminated food or water. The virus can be transmitted by infected individuals from approximately two weeks before symptom onset until one week after symptoms begin, according to the Maine CDC.

Due to the escalating health concerns associated with this outbreak, Portland officials have taken measures to clear out homeless camps. It is crucial to prioritize public health and prevent further spread of the disease.

To tackle this infectious disease, individuals can protect themselves by getting vaccinated against hepatitis A. The vaccine is especially effective if taken within 14 days of exposure, helping to prevent illness in those who may have come into contact with an infected person.

The authorities in Maine and local healthcare organizations are working together to address this outbreak and provide necessary resources and support to protect the community from further infections. Continued monitoring and prompt action remain essential to curbing the spread of hepatitis A in Portland and beyond.