2 Hepatitis A cases investigated at Grosse Pointe restaurants

Two cases of Hepatitis A are being investigated at a pair of Grosse Pointe area restaurants.

Both Uncle Paul's Pizza in Grosse Pointe Woods and Cabbage Patch Cafe & Catering in Grosse Pointe Woods are being investigated by the Wayne County Department of Health, Veterans and Community Wellness it was announced Friday.

People who consumed food from these establishments between August 1st and September 29, 2017 are asked to watch for symptoms of Hepatitis A which can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dark urine, clay colored stool, fever, chills, yellow skin and eyes (jaundice). Symptoms occur between 15 and 50 days after exposure and can last for several weeks to months.

Uncle Paul's Pizza is located at 21215 Mack Avenue, Cabbage Patch Cafe at 15110 Kercheval Avenue.

Hepatitis A is a vaccine preventable disease. The vaccine is generally recommended for children as a two dose series. There is also a vaccine for adults. If given within 14 days of exposure, Hepatitis A vaccine or immunoglobulin can prevent illness. Contact your physician immediately if you have symptoms. Also, if you think you have been exposed, talk to your health care provider about vaccination or immunoglobulin. 

WCDHVCW is seeing an increase in Hepatitis A cases, as part of the ongoing outbreak in Southeast Michigan. Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated food or water, or close personal contact with an infected person. 

The best way to prevent the spread of Hepatitis A is:

Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom or changing a diaper
Thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water during food preparation and before eating food
Avoiding undercooked or raw shellfish
Not preparing food for others if you are ill
Getting your Hepatitis A vaccine

WCDHVCW urges all residents to get vaccinated for Hepatitis A. Vaccine is available at many clinics and pharmacies. If you have any other questions about Hepatitis A go to www.cdc.gov/hepatitis, or call WCDHVCW at 734-727-7078.