A worker at the Burger King at 3311 South Kentucky Avenue, near Mann Road in Indianapolis has been diagnosed with hepatitis A. Anyone who ate at that facility from January 21 through January 24, 2019 may have been exposed to the pathogenic virus.
The Marion Countuy Public Health Department is hating a special clinic on Monday, February 4, 2019, from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at its South District Health Office at 7551 South Shelby Street. Anyone who visited that restaurant on the above dates can get a vaccination. People who ate there on January 21 have until today to get a shot, since the vaccine is only effective if given within two weeks of exposure. You can also get the shot at doctor’s offices.
The Burger King restaurant management is cooperating with public health officials and is cleaning the restaurant. The restaurant is remaining open while the investigation is ongoing.
The notice from Marion County has a strange statement. It says, “Those who ate at the restaurant prior to January 21, 2019 should monitor for any signs or symptoms of hepatitis A and contact their health care provider immediately if any symptoms are present.” It’s too late for anyone who ate there before January 21 to get a vaccination.
the symptoms of hepatitis A include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal pain, especially in the upper right quadrant, yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark colored urine, fever, and light clay colored stools. Some people may have no symptoms at all, but can transmit the virus to others.
The state of Indiana has been experiencing higher than normal cases of hepatitis A. Officials are recommending that people get vaccinated against the virus. You can also help prevent the spread of this disease by washing your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom, and by staying home from work or school if you are sick.
