Cases of Hepatitis A have been confirmed west of Grande Prairie. Alberta Health Services and the First Nations and Inuit Health branch have confirmed the cases, including six in Horse Lake First Nations and students at Hythe Regional School.
Hepatitis A is caused by a virus that infects the liver but generally does not lead to any long-term problems. While the infection most often goes away on its own, some cases can be more serious.
Letters were sent home to parents in mind-January and immunization clinics at the Horse Lake Health Centre started Monday. Hand washing also helps prevent the spread of the virus.