Oakland County Health Division and Wayne County Wellness Services Division, in coordination with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, have identified Hepatitis A infection in a food service worker at the Social Kitchen and Bar located at 225 E. Maple Road in Birmingham. The food service worker is a resident of Wayne County.
Persons who consumed any food or drinks at this food establishment between July 16, 2016, and Aug. 6, 2016, may have been exposed to the Hepatitis A virus. Patrons should monitor for symptoms of Hepatitis A infection which include sudden onset of abdominal discomfort, dark urine, fever, diarrhea, and yellow skin and eyes. Oakland County Health Division is conducting outreach to restaurant employees to recommend prophylaxis treatment.
Hepatitis A vaccine or immune globulin (IG) may provide protection against the disease if given within two weeks after exposure. Therefore, those who consumed food or beverage at the restaurant between July 27, 2016, and Aug. 6, 2016, should promptly contact their healthcare provider to receive vaccination. Hepatitis A vaccine may be available at some major pharmacies in Michigan. People who have had Hepatitis A disease or previously received two doses of the Hepatitis A vaccine do not need to be immunized for Hepatitis A again.
Time from exposure to onset of illness (incubation period) is typically 15 to 50 days. Duration of illness typically lasts several weeks to several months. Treatment of Hepatitis A is supportive, and most people will recover without complications.
While vaccination provides the best protection, frequent handwashing with soap and warm water after using the bathroom and before preparing food can help prevent the spread of Hepatitis A. Appropriately cooking foods can also help prevent infection.
Anyone who develops symptoms of Hepatitis A infection should stay home and contact their healthcare provider. Call a local health department for assistance in locating Hepatitis A vaccine or IG. The Oakland Health Division can be reached at 248-848-5533 from Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Wayne County Wellness Services Division can be reached at 734-727-7078 from Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Published: Fri, Aug 12, 2016
