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Public Health
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Epidemiology
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Bulletin Index
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Web Document
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Bulletin No. 28 • Large outbreaks of hepatitis A have occurred in Alaska in periodic cycles. During epidemic periods, disease transmission has been widespread and has lasted several years. After the end of the epidemic period, almost no transmission of hepatitis A occurs until the next cycle. • Outbreaks of hepatitis A in Alaska have resulted in over 3,000 cases and at least 4 deaths over the past 10 years. • During the last outbreak period (1986-91), one-third of the reported cases were in non-Natives.
Alaska, 1972 - 1995
• Alaska is now in the "valley" of a hepatitis A cycle; without widespread vaccination against hepatitis A, we will soon face a new statewide outbreak.
• Village-wide outbreaks are dependent on the presence of a young, susceptible population. The highest attack rate for hepatitis A is in children <15 years of age.
• Studies in Alaska have indicated that 70-80% of the susceptible population must be immunized to prevent the occurrence of future epidemics.
A vaccine to PREVENT hepatitis A is available:
• for ALL Alaska children 2-14 years of age;
Let’s stop hepatitis A.
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