LA County confirms 165 cases since 2024 with 29 in 2025 alone, including individuals without known risk factors.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has declared a community-wide hepatitis A outbreak following a sharp rise in cases and increased virus levels detected in wastewater. Since 2024, 165 cases have been confirmed, three times the total reported in 2023. Most of the 29 cases identified in 2025 have occurred in individuals without known risk factors such as homelessness or travel, signaling broader community transmission.1
Although the overall risk to the public is currently low, health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated and practice good hygiene. In the press release, Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, LA County Health Officer, stressed that the hepatitis A vaccine is safe, effective, and essential for long-term protection. Regular handwashing is also strongly recommended, especially before eating or preparing food and after using the bathroom.1
Public Health is coordinating with healthcare providers and outreach organizations to educate the public, monitor new cases, and offer vaccinations. Mobile vaccine units continue to serve people experiencing homelessness, while residents with insurance can access the vaccine through their providers or participating pharmacies. The infection, which affects the liver and can range from mild to severe, is preventable through vaccination and proper sanitation.1
What You Need To Know
LA County has reported 165 hepatitis A cases since 2024, triple the 2023 total, with recent infections occurring in people without known risk factors, indicating wider community transmission…