Alert: Hepatitis A Outbreak in Los Angeles!

Recently, I diagnosed and treated a patient with hepatitis A who happily recovered completely. It so happened that Los Angeles County had just declared a community-wide outbreak of hepatitis A, a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). In 2024, 165 cases were recorded—triple the number seen the year prior. As of early May 2025, 29 cases have been confirmed this year, with a notable increase in cases among individuals without traditional risk factors such as homelessness or recent travel. 

What Is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is an acute viral infection that affects the liver. It is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. My patient got ill shortly after eating out at a restaurant that most likely had a food handler who harbored the virus. Unlike hepatitis B and C, hepatitis A does not cause chronic liver disease, but it can lead to severe complications in some cases.

Symptoms of Hepatitis A Include:

• Fatigue

• Sudden nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side

• Clay-colored stools

• Loss of appetite

• Low-grade fever

• Dark urine

• Joint pain

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

• Intense itching

Symptoms typically appear two to seven weeks after exposure and can last up to two months.

Medical Consequences

While many individuals recover fully from hepatitis A without lasting liver damage, the infection can cause significant discomfort and, in rare cases, acute liver failure, particularly in older adults or those with preexisting liver conditions. In the case of my patient, he suffered symptoms for almost three weeks before recovering with acupuncture and TCM treatments. 

Prevention Strategies

Conventional Approaches

Vaccination: Most people may have had the hepatitis A vaccine, which is effective and is a good method for preventing infection. However, the antibodies drop over time and become ineffective for many. 

Hygiene Practices: Regular handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before eating or preparing food, is crucial. 

Food Safety: Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat and seafood, and ensure food is prepared in sanitary conditions. I strongly advise avoiding street food, even though it’s so enticing, and advocate for only reputable restaurants for raw fish.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Approaches

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers complementary strategies to enhance liver health and bolster the body’s defenses against infections like hepatitis A.

Liver Support Herbal Remedy: Certain herbs have been identified for their potential in preventing and managing hepatitis A:

• Dandelion (Taraxacum mongolicum): Known for its detoxifying properties, dandelion has been used traditionally to support liver function and may help prevent hepatitis A

• Artichoke (Cynara scolymus): This herb/food has been found to support liver function, reduce elevated liver enzymes due to inflammation, and relieve symptoms associated with hepatitis A.

• Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum): Traditionally used to alleviate liver disease and support the liver’s healthy detoxification function.  

Immune System Support: TCM emphasizes the balance of the body’s energies (Qi) and the importance of a robust immune system. Practices such as acupuncture, tai chi, and qigong, along with herbal formulations like the Natural Immunity Plus, with its antiviral and immune-boosting medicinal mushrooms, are employed to strengthen the body’s resistance to infections.

The recent hepatitis A outbreak in Los Angeles underscores the importance of preventive measures, including vaccination and proper hygiene. Integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine approaches, such as the use of specific herbs and practices to support liver health and immune function, may offer additional benefits.