Six children have contracted Hepatitis A following an outbreak detected at a nursery school located in Gran Canaria. According to the regional Health Department, the initial case was identified in one student, leading to the activation of protocols and the detection of five additional cases.
All affected individuals are minors and are reportedly recovering favorably. However, two of the children required hospitalization, while the rest are being monitored at home.
“"They are recovering favorably, although two have required hospitalization, while the rest are under observation at home."
The Epidemiological Surveillance Service of the Directorate General of Public Health has commenced contact tracing and implemented necessary measures at the educational center. The Directorate General of Public Health has also notified the National Epidemiological Surveillance Network (RENAVE) about the outbreak, as Hepatitis A is a mandatory reporting disease.
To control the spread, post-exposure vaccination and diagnostic testing have begun for close contacts at the school, in coordination with the Gran Canaria Primary Care Management. The Health Department indicated that no special measures beyond basic hygiene recommendations are anticipated.
Emphasis is placed on maintaining hygiene practices, such as frequent hand washing with soap and water, particularly after using the restroom and before meals. Increased caution is also advised during diaper changes and surface cleaning.
Hepatitis A is an acute liver infection caused by a virus that often presents no symptoms, especially in children under six years old. In adults, symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fever, or abdominal pain may occur, followed by jaundice. Transmission primarily happens through the fecal-oral route or by consuming contaminated food.
Children play a significant role in virus transmission, frequently experiencing asymptomatic infections. The period of highest contagiousness ranges from two weeks before jaundice onset to one week after. Health authorities recommend excluding affected individuals from work or school for up to seven days after symptom onset. Treatment is primarily supportive, focusing on rest, diet, and hydration.
