In Virginia, the number of hepatitis A outbreak cases linked to restaurants has more than doubled. At least 30 people have been infected with the virus, which can lead to fatal liver infections. According to the Roanoke Times, health officials have stated that the window of onset of symptoms is now open, so they may continue to hear of new cases for at least a few more weeks.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms can appear up to 50 days after being exposed to the virus. At least three of the patients were admitted to the hospital. According to the Virginia Department of Health, those infected dined at Anthony’s three well-known restaurants.
According to a state health department official, one of the employees at the three restaurants tested positive for the virus, which causes liver infections. Hepatitis A is highly contagious, but it is preventable through vaccination. The worker could have avoided disease if he had been immunized. Four of those patients were new to the outbreak since it was first reported on September 24.
According to the CDC, symptoms of hepatitis, A infection include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, pale stools, fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Health officials advise anyone who has eaten at any of the affected restaurants to monitor themselves for symptoms over the next few weeks. Anyone experiencing symptoms should consult a physician.
(Beach, restaurant-related hepatitis A outbreak doubles in size; more illnesses likely – Food Safety News 2021)
