The Somerset County Department of Health’s public vaccination clinics in response to a confirmed case of Hepatitis A in a food handler at the Somerville ShopRite have concluded.
Approximately 2000 Hepatitis A vaccines were administered to the public in 17 hours over a period of 3 days. In addition, health department staff handled over 500 calls from concerned residents.
These clinics would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the county administration. Much gratitude to the leadership of Chief Stahl, Somerset County Director of Public Health and Safety, the guidance of Dr. Reddy, Director/Health Officer of the Somerset County Department of Health and tireless dedication of the Somerset County Department of Health staff for their commitment to protecting the health and safety of the residents of Somerset County.
Thanks should also be extended to the many local public health partners without whose support this response would not have been possible:
Somerset County Medical Reserve Corps
Somerset County Emergency Response Team (CERT)
Somerset County Office of Emergency Management
Somerset County Public Information Office
Hunterdon County Department of Health
Hunterdon County Medical Reserve Corps
Community Visiting Nurse Association of Somerset County
Somerville Office of Emergency Management
Somerset County Sheriff’s Office
Vaccine Distributors
County Building Security
The New Jersey Department of Health and the public Somerset County Department of Health will continue to monitor the situation, and any updates, if necessary, will be posted on our website.
If you believe you were exposed, and have not yet received the Hepatitis A vaccination, you should:
- Obtain a Hepatitis A vaccination from your healthcare provider or local pharmacy.
- Monitor your health for symptoms of hepatitis A infection including fatigue, low appetite, stomach pain, nausea and jaundice up to 50 days after exposure.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water frequently and thoroughly, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing food.
- Stay at home and contact your healthcare provider immediately if symptoms of hepatitis A infection develop.
Vaccination is a highly effective, easy way to keep your family healthy. On-time vaccination for children and adults is essential because it helps provide immunity before an individual is exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases. Check with your healthcare provider annually for the shots you may need to keep you and those around you safe.