Report: Hepatitis A in Maine Climbed Significantly Last Year

Public health authorities say the number of reported cases of hepatitis A in Maine climbed significantly last year.

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention says that reported cases of the disease rose from nine in 2018 to 45 last year.

A dozen of those cases were linked to a food-borne outbreak in Aroostook County.

Hepatitis A virus causes liver infection and leads to symptoms such as fever, fatigue, nausea and jaundice.

The Maine CDC says the best way to prevent the virus is with a vaccine, and practicing good hygiene can also help.