Following a year-long increase in cases, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health declare a hepatitis A outbreak.
Hepatitis A infections surged in L.A. County, rising from previous years to 165 cases in 2024; 29 cases have been reported so far in 2025.
Hepatitis A, present in the stool of infected individuals, is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, including close contact or tainted food and drink.
Due to limited access to hygiene facilities, unhoused individuals are at higher risk of contracting hepatitis A. Public health officials urge residents to practice good sanitation and ensure their hepatitis A vaccinations are up to date.
“The ongoing increase in hepatitis A cases signals that quick action is needed to protect public health,” said Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County health officer. “The hepatitis A vaccine is safe, effective, and offers long-term protection. Getting vaccinated is simple, and it’s one of the most important things you can do for your own health and the health of our entire community.”
To find a vaccination clinic in L.A. County, click here.
