Hepatitis A cases continue to increase in Kentucky and West Virginia

(WYMT/WSAZ)- Hepatitis A cases across the commonwealth and in West Virginia, continue to climb.

Since May, the numbers have increased, although cases involving food service workers have seemed to decline.

At the end of April, Kentucky reported 400 hepatitis A cases since November. However, as of June 13, that number has increased to around 760.

Boyd County has reported 94 cases, which is the most in our region so far.

In West Virginia, numbers are lower, but still significant. Cases jumped from 82 in May to 195 statewide so far this month. That’s according to the Department of Health and Human Resources.

Health officials want to remind you that the best way to protect yourself is by washing your hands consistently and getting the vaccine.