Viljandi to Vaccinate Homeless for Hepatitis A
The town of Viljandi is planning to vaccinate its homeless citizens against hepatitis A, amidst a viral outbreak with its epicenter in Viljandi County.
Last week, Viljandi police transported a homeless person with an injured hand to the hospital. Upon giving medical treatment, doctors discovered the person carried the virus, reported ERR radio.
Viljandi officials also want their homeless citizens to stay at a shelter for the time being. The town sought assistance from the police, which is considering vaccinating its entire county force.
But there is still a shortage of the vaccine - which cost 44 euros and requires three shots - in Viljandi County pharmacies. The governor of Viljandi County, Lembit Kruuse, said pharmacies are required by law to obtain the vaccine. "Apparently, [pharmacies] still haven't ordered the vaccine and there is also a question of risk - as businesses, pharmacies don't want to take high risks," said Kruuse.
Hepatitis A is an infection caused by a virus affecting the liver, causing inflammation of the organ and often jaundice (yellowing of skin). It can be caused and spread by poor hygiene, contaminated food and contact with an infected person.
The first case was confirmed in Viljandi this past February but since August 25 the number of cases has spiked dramatically.
Ott Tammik