Hepatitis A case found in restaurant worker in Grosse Pointe Woods
(WJBK) - A confirmed case of Hepatitis A has been found with a restaurant worker in Grosse Pointe Woods.
The Wayne County Department of Health, Veterans and Community Wellness has confirmed a case of Hepatitis A from a worker at Champs Rotisserie and Spirits located at 20515 Mack Avenue in Grosse Pointe Woods. The management there contacted the Wayne County HVCW and together will schedule an employee vaccine clinic.
The ill individual is not currently working and is receiving medical care.
Wayne County HVCW is advising people who consumed food from this establishment between Oct. 10 to 30, 2017 to watch for symptoms of Hepatitis A. Symptoms to watch for 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.
Hepatitis A is a vaccine preventable disease. If given within 14 days of exposure, Hepatitis A
vaccine or immunoglobulin can prevent illness. It is recommended that patrons who consumed
food, on or after October 20th at Champs Rotisserie and Spirits, receive Hepatitis A vaccine by
November 13th, if they have not already been vaccinated.
Special populations such as pregnant women, persons with weakened immune systems, and
individuals with liver disease should contact their health care provider regarding the need for
both Hepatitis A immunoglobulin (Ig) and vaccine. Exposed children, under the age of one year,
should receive Hepatitis A Ig.
Over 480 cases of Hepatitis A have been linked to the regional outbreak in Southeast Michigan
since August 1st, 2016. 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.
Wayne County HVCW urges all residents to get vaccinated for Hepatitis A. Vaccine is available
at the Wayne County Public Health Clinic located at 33030 Van Born Road in Wayne as well as
many clinics and pharmacies.
More information on Hepatitis A is available at www.mi.gov/hepatitisAoutbreak or www.cdc.gov/hepatitis, or call Wayne County Disease Control at 734-727-7078.