Hepatitis A Outbreak Information
Since September 2017, Butler County has consistently seen an increased number of Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) cases. Hepatitis A is a highly contagious virus that attacks the liver and suppresses the immune system. HAV is transmitted from person-to-person via the fecal-oral route; typically from ingesting contaminated food or drink. For more information and weekly updates concerning Butler County’s Hepatitis A cases, please see our Facebook page by clicking the link located on the right menu bar. The links below provide further information from the Center for Disease Control regarding Hepatitis A Virus information, signs and symptoms, and recommended immunization schedule for adults and children.
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hav/afaq.htm#C1
https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hav/index.htm
Tick-Borne Illness Information
Missouri is home to a large population of ticks; tick-borne diseases can pose an increased risk for individuals who work or play outside. At least six (6) different types of tick-borne diseases have been reported in Missouri residents; these diseases include Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, tularemia, Lyme disease, and disease caused by Heartland and Bourbon virus. The majority of cases occur during the months of May, June, and July. Symptoms of each disease typically includes headache, sudden fever, and body aches; symptoms can begin within two weeks of being bitten by an infected tick. Not all ticks are infected, therefore, a tick bite does not necessarily mean you will get a disease. Taking precautions such as using insect repellant, wearing protective clothing, avoiding infested areas, and checking for ticks after being outdoors reduces the chance for tick-borne diseases. The links below provide information from Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the Center for Disease Control concerning tick-borne illnesses.
https://health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/communicable/tickscarrydisease/index.php
https://www.cdc.gov/Features/StopTicks/
