Desert Messenger

June 12, 2019 ww.DesertMessenger.com 7 too much junk? CLEAN OUT THAT GARAGE List your items in Desert Messenger CLASSIFIEDS Email Editor@DesertMessenger.com or CALL RAIN @ 928-916-4235 THRIFT STORE Benefitting the La Paz County Animal Shelter in Parker Supported by your generous donations! 455 E. Main St. Quartzsite Open Tues. thru Sat. 9-3 928-927-4223 First locally-owned and operated music station in Quartzsite, Arizona. Proudly serving the communities of Quartzsite, Bouse, Brenda, Rainbow Acres, La Paz Valley and beyond, since 1988. Quartzsite's Favorite "CLASSIC HITS" Local Information Weather 24 Hours Day / 7 Days Week! 928-927-5111 Health Advisory: Hepatitis A in Arizona June's Food Bank Writing Contest Winner Arizona, along with many other states, is currently experiencing a state- wide outbreak of hepatitis A affecting eight counties. There have been more than 350 cases, primarily among at-risk individuals, which includes illicit drug users, people experiencing homelessness or unstable housing, and those who have been recently incarcerated. A striking 80% of cases have been hospitalized. Hepatitis A is highly contagious, but it is also effectively preventable. The best way to prevent hepatitis A infection is to get vaccinated. Vaccination is generally recommended for: • people experiencing homelessness or unstable housing; • people who use drugs; • people who have recently been incarcerated; and • men who have sex with men. Hepatitis A is a contagious liver disease that results from infection with the hepatitis A virus. Symp- toms include: • fever; • nausea and vomiting; • abdominal pain; and • yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice). However, some people with hepati- tis A do not have symptoms. Hepatitis A is highly contagious and spreads when a person un- knowingly ingests the virus from objects, food, or drinks contami- nated by microscopic amounts of stool from an infected person. Hepatitis A can also spread from close personal contact with an in- fected person such as through sex or caring for someone who is ill. People who are infected can spread the virus for about three weeks be- fore and after symptoms appear. In addition to vaccination, proper hygiene and handwashing can help prevent the spread of the virus. If you would like to get the hepati- tis A vaccine, or if you're not sure if you have had the vaccine, contact your health care provider or phar- macy. If you think you might have hepatitis A, contact your doctor. For additional information on hepatitis A in Arizona, please visi- tazhealth.gov/HepAOutbreak. Like so many others, my only in- come is social security. By coming to the food bank I can stretch my limited budget. I get to try a variety of foods that I normally wouldn't buy due to high prices in the stores. The fruit and vegetables are in very nice condition. Also both the boxed foods and fresh are a nice variety which helps me to have bal- anced meals. Carols Closet also helps me to have nice clothes/shoes etc. Otherwise I couldn't afford to buy the items that I'm freely given by the very friendly volunteers. Many thanks to all of them! By Barbara FOOD BANK WRITING CONTEST In 300-500 words tell us how the Quartzsite Food Bank has helped you, to win a prize of a $25 Silly Al's Gift Card or Road Runner Gift Certifi cate. Submit to FQFoodBank@gmail. com or drop off at the Food Bank 40 N Moon Mountain Tuesday & Thursday 8am-noon Your letter may be used in the Desert Messenger, posted on our website, Facebook and donor let- ters. Please Include your name, ad- dress & phone number. You may elect to use or not use your name in the article. Any questions call 480-286-8373. For information on how to donate to the Friends of the Quartzsite Food Bank: QuartzsiteFoodBank.com Or mail check to FQFB PO Box 4051 Quartzsite, AZ 85359

• Cover