Health officials in Fort Wayne, Indiana said that an employee at the 800 Degrees Three Fires restaurant at 5125 Illinois Road has tested positive for hepatitis A. If you ate or drank anything at that restaurant between May 18 and May 26, 2013, you are at risk for the disease.
Anyone who has not previously had hepatitis A should see their health care provider immediately to get a vaccine against the disease. A vaccine is only useful if it is given within 14 days of exposure. Free hepatitis A vaccines will be available to the public at the Southwest Allen County Schools Transportation Center at 4814 Homestead Road today, Saturday, June 1, 2013 from noon to 8:00 pm, and Sunday, June 2, 2013 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The clinic is a drive-through so people don’t have to get out of their cars and possibly spread the virus to anyone else. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to receive the shot.
Dr. Deborah McMahan, Allen County Health Commissioner, said, “we are asking these restaurant patrons to get this vaccination as a precautionary measure. Those who are having symptoms of the illness should not come to the vaccination clinic but should seek medical attention. This incident serves as a reminder of why it is so important that we have a well-trained and adequately funded public health workforce which can respond to urgent public health matters efficiently and effectively.” Symptoms of a hepatitis A infection include fever, nausea, abdominal pain and jaundice.
The Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health has established a hotline for questions at 260-449-4499. It will be staffed from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Saturday, June 1. At other times there is a prerecorded message.
