Costa Rica News – Those living or working in Aserrí should be aware of a hepatitis A outbreak in the city.
There have been 61 confirmed cases so far. The virus is transmitted by water or food that is contaminated.
In this case, it is assumed that water is the source of the outbreak because both affected communities, La Piedad and Bella Vista, share a water source. One possibility is that the chlorine tablet in the water tanks was not dissolved properly. The water has been inspected and is currently safe.
Symptoms of hepatitis A include vomiting, abdominal pain or discomfort, headache, fever, dark urine, light stool and yellowing of the eyes and skin.
Good personal hygiene can help stop the spread of the virus. Wash hands frequently with soap, especially before meals. Make sure that utensils and food containers stay clean. In case of doubt about potability of water, three drops of bleach per liter can be used. Let it stand for a half hour before drinking it.
