On the heels of a confirmed case of Hepatitis A in an employee of McDonald’s, the Seneca County Health Department has announced that more cases of Hepatitis A have been uncovered. There are now a total of 5 cases of Hepatitis A discovered in the last few weeks. Most concerning of the cases is associated with Mark’s Pizzeria at 1963 Kingdom Plaza in Waterloo, New York. People who ate at the restaurant between November 13th and November 28th should attend the clinics provided by the County if they have not been vaccinated for Hepatitis A yet.
Hepatitis A is a virus that causes a liver infection in humans. Transmission usually occurs after exposure to contaminated fecal matter. Hepatitis is a self-limiting illness that may not even produce symptoms. If symptoms do appear, they will include nausea, fever, fatigue, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dark urine. Young children tend to not show symptoms, while older children and adults will likely show symptoms. If symptoms do appear, they will include nausea, fever, fatigue, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dark urine. Symptoms generally subside within two months, but there is a chance that the virus will last for six months. There is a Hepatitis A vaccine, and it is very effective at reducing the chance of infection. The vaccine is recommended for those with certain risk factors, including those that have a compromised immune system, those that are young children, and those that live in an area with high rates of infection. If you or a loved one begins to show the symptoms of a Hepatitis A infection, contact a medical professional.
