Health district releases final hepatitis C outbreak report

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 21, 2009

LAS VEGAS — The Southern Nevada Health District has completed its final outbreak report on the investigation into a cluster of acute hepatitis C cases linked to the Endoscopy Center of Southern Nevada and related clinics. The report is available on the health district’s website at. http://www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/download/outbreaks/final-hepc-investigation-report.pdf

“This final report is a detailed accounting of our investigation and related activities, including a compilation of information released during the course of the investigation. Our findings and conclusions remain unchanged,” said Dr. Lawrence Sands, chief health officer for the health district.

The report also includes a previously unreported case that is possibly linked to the endoscopy center, bringing the total number of possible cases to 106. Nine additional cases were identified as directly linked to the clinics.

The release of the report marks the official end to the health district’s investigation. The agency continues to participate in activities to promote patient and provider education and safe injection practices.

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The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.