Local Health Officials Offer Free Vaccines In Wake Of Multistate Hepatitis A Outbreak

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Health officials planned to offer free hepatitis A vaccines at several clinics throughout the city this weekend in the wake of a multistate outbreak of infections possibly linked to frozen berries.

The Townsend Farms Organic Antioxidant Blend has since been removed from Costco stores, according to officials.

"Those that have purchased this product should discard it if still found in their home," Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, Director of Public Health and Health Officer, said in a news release. "We are actively investigating this situation, anyone who has consumed this specific product should contact their doctor within the 14-day period to discuss possible hepatitis A prevention and treatment options."

Officials say there have been seven confirmed illnesses in California, including two in San Bernardino County, and one each in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Diego. A second possible case in Los Angeles is under investigation, KNX 1070 reported.

At least 30 cases are being reported nationwide. No deaths have been reported.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health says the vaccines will be available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through June 2 at the following locations:

• AV Health Center (335 Avenue K-6; Lancaster)
• North Hollywood HC (5300 Tujunga Avenue; North Hollywood)
• Monrovia HC (330 W. Maple Avenue; Monrovia)
• Hollywood Wilshire HC (5205 Melrose Avenue; Los Angeles)
• MLK Jr CPH (11833 S. Wilmington Ave; Los Angeles)
• Whittier HC (7643 S. Painter Avenue; Whittier)
• Curtis Tucker HC (123 W. Manchester Boulevard; Inglewood)

RELATED STORY: 6 Cases Of Hepatitis A In Calif. Linked To Frozen Berries Sold At Costco