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DOH-Hernando Identifies Case of Hepatitis A in Food Service Worker; Encourages Vaccination
Media Contact Only
Ashley Thomas
Ashley.Thomas@flhealth.gov
352-540-6303
Brooksville, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Hernando County (DOH-Hernando) has identified a positive case of hepatitis A in a food service worker at Village Pizza Restaurant in Spring Hill, FL. The employee may have exposed patrons between May 29 and June 5, 2019.
Hepatitis A vaccine or immune globulin (IG) may provide protection against the disease if given within two weeks after exposure. Therefore, Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for anyone who ate or drank between June 4 and 5 from Village Pizza, which is located at 4070 Deltona Blvd. in Spring Hill. Concerned Village Pizza customers can call DOH-Hernando at 352-247-6111 to leave their information and a call-back number to speak directly with a nurse.
DOH-Hernando is also offering the hepatitis A vaccine for free at the Spring Hill location of the Health Department with extended hours on June 18 and 19 from 8:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.
Person who consumed any food or beverage from this restaurant from May 29 to June 5 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, pale white stools, and yellow skin and eyes (jaundice). Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
Hernando County has seen a significant increase in hepatitis A cases. In 2019, the number of cases of locally identified hepatitis A infections in Hernando County is 67, compared to 6 cases in 2018, and 2 cases from 2014-2016.
Health Department
7551 Forest Oaks Blvd. Spring Hill, FL 34606
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
352-540-6800
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For more information on hepatitis A, call the information line, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., toll free: 1-844-CALL-DOH (844-225-5364). Or email: HepA@flhealth.gov.
What is hepatitis A and how does it spread?
Hepatitis A is caused by contagious virus that infects the liver, and can lead to serious liver problems. There is a vaccine that prevents the virus.
The virus spreads through the feces (poop) of people who have the virus. If a person with the virus doesn’t wash his or her hands after going to the bathroom, feces can transfer to objects, food, drinks or drugs.
When these things are shared, other people can unknowingly swallow the virus. If a person who has the virus comes in close contact with others—like during sex—the virus can also spread.
The vaccine and handwashing can stop the spread.
Read more here
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