First Responders Exposed To Hep A While Fighting Fire At Homeless Encampment
Because a “large amount” of urine and feces had accumulated at the encampment, eleven firefighters were tested and received injections to prevent infection. California is currently battling an outbreak of the virus.
Los Angeles Times:
Blaze At Homeless Encampment In San Diego County May Have Exposed Firefighters To Hepatitis A
A team of firefighters may have been exposed to hepatitis A while battling a vegetation fire early Sunday at a homeless encampment in Spring Valley, officials said. A “large amount” of urine and feces had accumulated at the encampment, prompting hazardous materials crews to require firefighters to decontaminate with soap and water before leaving the scene, according to the San Miguel Fire Protection District. (Tchekmedyian, 9/25)
KPBS:
Firefighters Worry About Hep A Exposure After Being Contaminated By Feces
About a dozen San Diego firefighters were being seen by doctors on Monday after being contaminated a day earlier with human feces, and there is concern over a possible exposure to hepatitis A, said fire spokesman Stephen Moran. (Murphy, 9/25)
Capital Public Radio:
Hepatitis A Outbreak Among Homeless Has Sacramento Health Officials On Alert
San Diego declared a public health emergency this month after Hepatitis A killed 16 people and sickened hundreds, most of them homeless. The disease spreads quickly in unsanitary environments like homeless camps. (Caiola, 9/25)