The City of El Cajon works proactively to protect the community against the threat of Hepatitis A. This page provides information about Hepatitis A and prevention tips, the City’s prevention efforts, and vaccination information. 

Facts and Prevention Tips 

• During the height of San Diego County’s 2017 Hepatitis A outbreak, the County estimated that more than 75% of those contaminated were homeless individuals or illicit drug users. Hepatitis A is usually transmitted from person-to-person contact, especially through fecal contamination.
• Vaccination of the most vulnerable population is key to fighting Hepatitis A. A two-part vaccination has been recommended for:
• Homeless Individuals and Illicit Drug Users
• Those in regular contact with the homeless
• Food handlers
• Prevention tips:
  • Washing your hands with soap and water for twenty seconds
  • Avoid intimate contact with someone infected with Hepatitis A and don not  share food, towels, utensils etc.           

Here are some of the actions the City continues to take to protect the safety of the City’s residents from Hepatitis A:

• Authorized the County to install handwashing stations at Prescott Promenade, outside the County library, and in conjunction with MTS at Trolley Stations
• The El Cajon Police Department’s Homeless Outreach Team accompanies County of San Diego nurses routinely for in-the-field Hepatitis A vaccinations
• Power washing and sanitizing sidewalks, curbs and benches in areas where homeless congregate and requested that MTS power wash trolley station platforms
• Reached out to over 360 private businesses regarding prevention measures and posted information in public facilities such as the library and recreation center
• Contacted school districts with additional information and requested that the County translate all Hepatitis A literature into Arabic
• Ensured that all City restrooms are being cleaned with effective Hepatitis A cleansers

If you are homeless, an illicit drug user, a food handler, or work in professions that are in contact with the homeless, the County encourages you to become vaccinated.  To obtain a vaccine:

• Visit your primary physician
• Call 2-1-1 to find a community clinic near you

For additional information, visit: San Diego County about Hepatitis A