Los Angeles County declares Hepatitis A Outbreak: What you need to know

Health authorities in Los Angeles County have officially declared an outbreak of Hepatitis A following a surge in confirmed cases, prompting concerns about expanding community transmission. The virus, which inflames the liver and spreads easily, appears to be affecting individuals beyond the traditionally recognized high-risk groups.

Since the beginning of 2025, local health officials have identified nearly 30 cases, surpassing what is typically seen over several months. Notably, many of these recent infections involve individuals with no known ties to common risk factors like homelessness, incarceration, or illicit drug use. This development has raised alarms among public health experts who are concerned about a broader shift in how the virus is spreading.

In response, Los Angeles County has launched a public health initiative aimed at halting further transmission. This includes expanding access to vaccinations through mobile health units, temporary clinics, and targeted outreach. Priority is being given to frontline workers and vulnerable populations who may face a greater risk of exposure.

Health officials are strongly encouraging residents to get vaccinated and to follow strict hygiene practices. Hepatitis A is commonly transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or through close personal contact with someone who is infected. Symptoms may include fatigue, fever, jaundice, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. In some cases, particularly among older adults or those with existing health conditions, the infection can lead to serious liver problems.

The outbreak emerges as Los Angeles grapples with broader public health pressures linked to housing insecurity and dense urban environments.

While previous Hepatitis A outbreaks in the region were largely contained within the unhoused community, this new surge involves a more diverse group of people, signaling a troubling change in transmission patterns.