The Gold Coast Public Health Unit is investigating a hepatitis A outbreak at a local school.
Key points:
- Four children have been diagnosed with hepatitis A at Arundel State School
- Another is under investigation
- The Gold Coast Public Health Unit provides immunizations to students, homes, and school staff
It has been confirmed that four children from Arundel State School have the disease, with another child awaiting diagnosis.
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that spreads when the feces of an infected person enter another person’s mouth, even through food, water, hands, clothing, or sex. .
It can become a serious illness in older children and adults.
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Gold Coast public health doctor Vicki Slinko said the disease affected the liver.
“The virus is present in the intestine of an infected person, so the most important preventative measure is to wash your hands thoroughly after going to the bathroom and before preparing or eating food,” said Dr. Slinko. .
The Gold Coast Public Health Unit (GCPHU) will provide vaccinations to students and their homes and school staff.
A GCPHU spokesman said the unit was actively investigating if there were other cases in the community.
The principal of Arundel State School declined to comment on the cluster, but posted a message to parents on the school’s Facebook page.
“The Arundel State School community has had confirmed cases of hepatitis A,” the publication said.
“We ask our families to read their emails for more information.
“The Gold Coast Public Health Unit is offering a free vaccination clinic at the school over the next weekend (June 11-12).”
The Department of Education has been contacted for comment.