The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) announced the identification of a Hepatitis A case in a food service worker at Green Elephant Bistro located at 608 Congress St., Portland. Although it's unknown how many patrons could be affected, it's been noted that Hepatitis
…
See More
A is a contagious liver disease that spreads through direct contact or consumption of contaminated food or water.
The infected individual apparently worked at this restaurant on several key dates spanning from September 21st to October 5th.
- 9/21 (dinner only)
- 9/23 (lunch and dinner)
- 9/24 (dinner only)
- 9/27 (dinner only)
- 9/28 (lunch and dinner)
- 9/30 (lunch and dinner)
- 10/1 (dinner only)
- 10/4 (dinner only)
- 10/5 (dinner only)
Patrons who dined in the establishment during the stated period may be at risk of infection. However, those who ordered takeout are not considered exposed. Following the discovery of the case, the restaurant in question has been closely cooperating with the Maine CDC to control possible further exposure.
Maine CDC advises individuals who were potentially exposed to discard any leftover food bought at this restaurant during the dates listed above.
Also, if eligible, get vaccinated. If you ate or drank from this restaurant during these dates, get a hepatitis A vaccine within 14 days of the last time eating or drinking there. If more than 14 days have passed, people who have not previously been vaccinated may still get the vaccine at any time to protect against future exposures. Individuals who worked in the restaurant during these dates should get a hepatitis A vaccine within 14 days of their last date worked. Ask your healthcare provider if you need hepatitis A immune globulin (IG) in addition to hepatitis A vaccine; certain people may need both.
If you are already vaccinated for hepatitis A, you are already protected. You do not need to get any additional hepatitis A vaccine doses now.
In case you experienced Hepatitis A symptoms such as fever, nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, dark-colored urine, and jaundice (a yellowing of the skin), it is important to report it. It can help to detect & resolve issues and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance.
Source:
www.maine.gov
