[Experience on the management of a hepatitis A outbreak in a children daycare center]

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Hepatitis A virus (HAV) spreads via the fecal-oral route, posing a risk in settings with frequent diaper changes and compromised hygiene, such as nurseries.
• Nursery environments present unique challenges for preventing hepatitis A transmission due to close contact and hygiene-related factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a hepatitis A outbreak occurring between November 2012 and February 2013 in a Mexicali, Baja California nursery.
• To detail the control measures implemented during the hepatitis A outbreak.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive epidemiological study was conducted.
• Attack rates were calculated, and proportions were established using Wilson's scale.
• Suspected cases included pupils, staff, and family members exhibiting hepatitis A symptoms. Data were sourced from weekly disease surveillance reports and nursery infirmary records.

Main Results:

• The overall attack rate was 13.1%, with 9.5% among nursery attendees.
• Key clinical signs included jaundice, biliuria, and abdominal pain.
• The outbreak spanned 86 days, with no reported deaths or hospitalizations. Control strategies emphasized enhanced surveillance and hygiene.

Conclusions:

• The hepatitis A outbreak demonstrated a significant spreading trend, primarily affecting young children.
• The event underscored the critical role of health education and sustained epidemiological surveillance, extending to the family environment, in managing such outbreaks.