Health officials are currently looking into a few cases of hepatitis A in the Cumbernauld area of North Lanarkshire. Hepatitis A is a liver infection that can vary in severity from mild symptoms lasting a few weeks to more severe cases lasting several months. The infection is typically spread through contaminated food or water, or by close contact with an infected person.
Symptoms of hepatitis A include fatigue, joint pain, fever, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, as well as pain in the upper-right stomach, rashes, jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, itchy skin, and abdominal pain and swelling. Vaccinations are being offered to those who have been in contact with affected individuals, and residents in the area are being advised to be vigilant for any symptoms, although some cases may not show any symptoms at all.
Dr. Alison Smith-Palmer, a public health consultant, mentioned that they are working closely with the affected individuals, their families, and close contacts to offer vaccinations as a precautionary measure. The hepatitis A vaccine is known to be safe and effective in preventing infection and protecting those with other health conditions that may put them at risk of severe illness if infected.
While there is no specific cure for hepatitis A, the infection typically improves on its own within a couple of months. In some cases, it can last for an extended period, and in rare instances, it can be life-threatening if it leads to liver failure. Residents in Cumbernauld are encouraged to be aware of the symptoms of hepatitis A and seek medical attention if they experience any signs of infection.
For more information on hepatitis A, individuals can visit the NHS Inform website or contact the NHS Lanarkshire Health Protection Team at 01698 752952. It is essential to stay informed and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the infection in the community.