Hepatitis A case found at Portland restaurant, officials say

Portland, Maine — Editor’s note: The above video originally aired on October 4, 2023.

A case of hepatitis A has been discovered at a Portland restaurant, state health officials said.

A case of hepatitis A has been identified in a food service worker in Portland, the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention wrote in a news release Friday.

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver disease caused by a virus, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention. It can be spread through person-to-person contact or by consuming contaminated food or water.

The individuals worked at Green Elephant Bistro in Portland while they were infected, according to the Maine CDC On the following dates:

• 9/21 (dinner only)
• 9/23 (lunch and dinner)
• 9/24 (dinner only)
• 9/27 (dinner only)
• 9/28 (lunch and dinner)
• 9/30 (lunch and dinner)
• 10/1 (dinner only)
• 10/4 (dinner only)
• 10/5 (dinner only)

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention said anyone who dines at the restaurant during these days may be at risk of contracting hepatitis A.

“It is unknown at this time whether customers who purchased and/or consumed take-out food or beverages from this restaurant during these days were infected,” the release said. “The restaurant is working closely with the Maine CDC and reports on these There was no ongoing exposure after the date.”

Officials added that anyone can be prevented from getting hepatitis A through a vaccine.

“People who have been exposed to hepatitis A can avoid getting sick if they get vaccinated within 14 days of exposure. If you think you have been exposed to hepatitis A and may need the vaccine, contact your health care provider. Hepatitis A is also available at some pharmacies Vaccine, but no prescription,” the release said.

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