美國加州爆發甲型肝炎

The U.S. state of California is experiencing the largest person-to-person outbreak of Hepatitis A in the United States since a vaccine to prevent the liver disease became available in 1996.

More than 600 cases have been reported in the state and 21 people have died. According to the California Department of Public Health, most of those infected are homeless or use drugs in places where sanitation has been a challenge.

An area in downtown Los Angeles is known for its homeless population. A recent study found that the area fell short of U.N. refugee camp standards calling for one public toilet for every 20 people.

Analysts say unsanitary conditions can become a breeding ground for the hepatitis A virus.自從1996年有了可以預防甲型肝炎的疫苗以來，美國加利福尼亞州正發生最大規模的甲型肝炎人與人之間的傳染。

迄今加州已發現了600多個病例，其中21人死亡。加州公共衛生部說，大部分感染甲型肝炎的人是無家可歸者和在衛生狀況不佳的地方使用毒品的人。

洛杉磯市區有一個流浪人口聚集的地區。最近一項調查顯示，那裏的衛生狀況低於聯合國的難民營標準。根據聯合國標準，每20人應有一個公共廁所。

分析人士說，糟糕的衛生狀況成爲甲型肝炎病毒流行的溫牀。