QUICK ACTION AVOIDS HEALTH PROBLE

Quick action by a local day-care center has contained a hepatitis A outbreak in Cape Girardeau.

Three cases were confirmed after a day-care worker became jaundiced and was hospitalized. About 30 children and adults who were potentially exposed to the disease received preventative medication.

The disease is seldom deadly, but it is pesky because it can result in long-term illness. It is spread through close contact with people carrying the disease or by ingesting contaminated food or water. The most recent incidents in Sikeston, St. Louis and Springfield, Mo., involved restaurant workers.

The day care is quick to point out that the disease was brought into the center. It's often hard to trace the cause of these cases. The county health department's is checking potential sources like restaurants or others who might have the virus. Some people are carriers. They are contagious but never develop symptoms.

Hepatitis A is a viral infection of the liver. The symptoms often mimic the flu. Unless a person becomes jaundiced, hepatitis may not be suspected.

Everyone can help stop hepatitis A by practicing thorough hand washing and vaccinations. Adults should stress the importance of hand washing to children as a way to inhibit this disease.

The local day care and county health department deserve high praise in nipping this outbreak in the bud. This incident serves as a timely reminder about the symptoms of hepatitis A and the way to help prevent its spread.