Halton Region Public Health is alerting the public after a confirmed case of hepatitis A was identified in a food handler at a Burlington restaurant.
Health officials say the individual worked at the Burlington Charcoal Pit – located at 2031 Lakeshore Road – between Thursday, October 23rd and Saturday, November 1st, and anyone who consumed food or drinks there during that period may have been exposed. The restaurant has been inspected and is compliant with public health standards, and staff are working with Halton Region Public Health throughout the investigation.
“The likelihood of transmission is considered low. However, as a precaution, anyone who may have been exposed should watch for symptoms for up to 50 days,” says Dr. Patrick Galange, Associate Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region. “Hepatitis A can cause liver infection and poses a higher risk for older adults and individuals with existing liver conditions. Vaccination is a highly effective way to prevent the disease.”
Hepatitis A can cause liver infection, particularly in older adults and those with existing liver conditions, and vaccination is considered highly effective in preventing illness. It’s spread from person-to-person by putting something in the mouth that has been contaminated by a person that has the disease. Symptoms can appear 15 to 50 days after exposure, and officials urge those affected to monitor their health and contact a provider if symptoms develop.
Common symptoms of hepatitis A include:
- fever
- general feeling of discomfort, illness, or uneasiness
- abdominal discomfort
- loss of appetite
- tiredness
- nausea and vomiting
- dark urine
- jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
To help prevent hepatitis A infection:
- wash hands thoroughly using soap and water, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers and before handling or eating food;
- avoid eating raw fish or shellfish;
- avoid sharing food and common items such as water bottles and cutlery;
- drink properly treated or bottled water if travelling outside of Canada; and,
- consider getting the Hep A immunization if travelling where the disease is common or your personal and or professional life puts you at risk for the disease.
If you are concerned that you may have been infected with hepatitis A or have questions, please speak to your health care provider or contact Halton Region Public Health by calling 311. To learn more about hepatitis A, click here.
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