Nunavut community hosts vaccination clinic to stem hepatitis A outbreak

Nunavut health officials are hosting a free vaccination clinic in Chesterfield Inlet during the week to help stem an outbreak of hepatitis A.

A handful of cases of the viral infection were confirmed in the Kivalliq community of 450 this past January, prompting the Government of Nunavut to issue public health advisories.

Hepatitis A—one of five different strains of the virus—affects the liver. It is spread through contaminated food or water.

But as the virus continues to circulate, the Chesterfield Inlet health centre is hosting an ongoing vaccination clinic. Residents can go to the centre anytime from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to be vaccinated against the virus.

GN health officials strongly urge vaccinations for children in the community aged six and under, who have yet to be immunized.

The GN also recommends vaccination for:

•  anyone who has been in close contact with those who are infected with hepatitis A
•  children, students and staff at the local school and daycare
•  infants and elders over the age of 60
•  anyone travelling in and out of Chesterfield Inlet

Cases of hepatitis A in Nunavut are not uncommon, but usually only appear every couple of years, and one case at a time.

The virus can range in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a more severe illness that lasts for several months.

To help stop the spread of the virus, the GN recommends that community members thoroughly wash their hands after using the washroom and changing diapers, as well as before preparing and eating food.

You can read more about hepatitis A here.