Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Hepatitis A can occur in situations ranging from isolated cases of disease to widespread epidemics. Good personal hygiene and proper sanitation can help prevent hepatitis A. Vaccines are also available for long-term prevention of hepatitis A virus infection in persons 12 months of age and older. Immune globulin is available for short-term prevention of hepatitis A virus infection in individuals of all ages. Tests and treatment are also available.
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Outbreaks
California experienced a large hepatitis A outbreak in 2016-2018, primarily among persons experiencing homelessness and/or using drugs in settings of limited sanitation. Other states continue to experience outbreaks in similar populations of at-risk people, and California continues to monitor for cases and local outbreaks in similar populations. For updates on outbreaks occurring in other states, visit CDC's hepatitis A outbreak page.