2024: A Look Back at an “Unusual” Year
December 17, 2024
• 50% average fatality rate, though this can vary from 20% to 90%
• 2021 has seen a new outbreak resulting in CDC health screening requirements for persons arriving from outbreak areas.
Early diagnosis is a challenge because:
• Symptoms may be nonspecific at first – fever, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, diarrhea, vomiting
• Can progress to unexplained bleeding or
bruising.
1. Exclude infected food handlers from handling food.
2. Ensure food handlers wash hands properly before meal preparation, particularly after toileting.
3. Ensure proper sanitation and access to safe water.
4. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in public restrooms; using a product with a
Hep A claim may be beneficial.
5. If a bodily fluid incident occurs, respond quickly to contain it, disinfect the spill and appropriate
surrounding areas, and exclude anyone from the area.
6. Antiviral drugs & immunoglobulins may be given after exposure, as advised by medical
professionals.
7. Consider vaccination, where possible, as a preventive approach. Vaccines are available against
Hep A and B; the Hep B vaccine also protects against Hep D.