ISLAND LAKE REGION – A confirmed Hepatitis A outbreak is actively spreading across the Island Lake region, affecting all four Anisininew Nations: Garden Hill, St. Theresa Point, Wasagamack, and Red Sucker Lake. A State of Emergency has been declared in Garden Hill Anisininew Nation. All residents and visitors must immediately implement protective health measures.

WHAT IS HEPATITIS A?
Hepatitis A is a viral infection of the liver transmitted through the fecal-oral route. The virus spreads through contaminated water, contaminated food, close contact with infected persons, and contact with contaminated surfaces. Symptoms appear 2 to 7 weeks after exposure and include fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, dark urine, pale stools, and yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice).

Immediate Proactive Actions

• Handwashing: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean running water for at least 20 seconds after using the toilet, before eating or preparing food, after handling raw food, after caring for sick persons, and upon returning home.
• Safe Water: Drink only treated water, bottled water, or boiled lf water safety is unce1tain, boil for at least I minute. Avoid ice from uncertain sources.
• Food Safety: Wash all fruits and vegetables under clean running Cook all food thoroughly, paiticularly shellfish and raw meats. Do not share food, utensils, cups, or toothbrushes.
• Home Sanitation: Use functioning toilets and sanitation facilities. Dispose of waste properly. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces with bleach solution ( l part bleach to 10 parts water). Separate and wash laundry of infected persons in hot water. Do not share towels or personal items.
• Isolation: If sick, stay home and seek medical care. Keep infected persons isolated from others until cleared by health authorities

Get Vaccinated
Hepatitis A vaccine is available for all residents aged 6 months and older. Contact your local community nursing station to schedule your vaccination appointment immediately. Two doses provide long-lasting protection (95-98% effectiveness after completing the series).

Seek Immediate Medical Care For

l. Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
2. Dark urine or pale/clay-colored stools
3. Yellowing of skin or eyes
4. Signs of dehydration: extreme thirst, d1y mouth, little to no urination, extreme weakness
5. Fever above 103°F (39.4°C)
6. Confusion or disorientation

Contact your nursing station or emergency services without delay.

Community Resources Community
Nursing Stations:

• Garden Hill Nursing Station
• St. Theresa Point Health Centre
• Wasagamack Nursing Station
• Red Sucker Lake Nursing Station

For health questions or to report suspected cases, contact your local nursing station or Manitoba Health Public Health line.

Collective Responsibility
The strength of our Anisininew Nations depends on community-wide action. By practicing strict hygiene, ensuring safe water access, getting vaccinated, and supporting one another, we will rapidly contain this outbreak and protect the health of our people.