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NC officials urge caution after Hepatitis A cases

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Officials at the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services are reminding residents to always take precautions when preparing food regardless of where they are.

The warning comes as officials help Mecklenburg and Cabarrus counties respond after a case of Hepatitis A in a food handler.

Health officials say thoroughly washing your hands before and during the preparation of meals can prevent the spread of Hepatitis A and other food-borne diseases. All surfaces should be washed, including the back of the hands, wrists, between fingers and under fingernails, especially after using the restroom and before handling food.

The Centers for Disease Control says vaccination is recommended for all children starting at age 1, for travelers to certain countries and for people at high risk for infection.