The Arkansas Department of Health is warning consumers that there is a possible hepatitis A exposure at the On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantino at 2324 Red Wolf Boulevard in Jonesboro. Anyone who ate there between December 13 and December 17, 2018 may have been exposed to the pathogenic virus.
Unfortunately, for all of the people who may have been exposed, it’s too late to get a vaccination, since that is effective only if applied within two weeks of exposure. Still, if you are in this group, contact your healthcare provider to see if he or she thinks you should be vaccinated.
The ADH is hosting two vaccine clinics. The first will be on January 4, 2019 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Craighead County Health Unit at 611 East Washington Avenue in Jonesboro, Arkansas, and the second will be held on January 5 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., also at the Craighead County Health Unit. These vaccinations will be provided at no cost. If you have an insurance card and driver’s license, bring them.
The symptoms of hepatitis A include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), nausea and vomiting, dark urine, light clay-colored stools, joint pain, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Anyone who is experiencing those symptoms should see a doctor as soon as possible.
While the risk of getting hepatitis A from food exposure is low, it does happen. People with liver disease and chronic health problems are more likely to become seriously ill from this disease. All restaurants must follow health department protocols for handwashing and glove use. Employees should not work if they are sick and should not return to work until they are well.
Since February 2018, there have been 237 cases of hepatitis A in Northeast Arkansas. Two people have died. Greene, Craighead, and Clay counties have had the most cases. A vaccination is recommended for food workers, and anyone who works with the public. Unfortunately, with hepatitis A, people are contagious up to two weeks be4fore they start feeling ill.
