Maine CDC warns of hepatitis A exposure at Lewiston restaurant

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention says customers at Marco’s Italian Restaurant, 12 Morrison Road, may have been exposed to hepatitis A last month after an employee was recently diagnosed (photo taken in November 2022). Andre Cohen/The Sun archives

LEWISTON — The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports a food service worker at Marco’s Italian Restaurant, 12 Morrison Road, Lewiston, has contracted hepatitis A, according to a news release Tuesday.

The employee worked during the infection period in September. on the 11th, 13th, 15-16th, 18th, 20-22nd, 25th and 27th-28th, the release said.

The CDC warns that anyone who visits the store during this time is at risk of contracting hepatitis A, which spreads from two weeks before to about a week after the onset of symptoms.

The CDC advises that symptoms of hepatitis A include exhaustion, low or no appetite, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, dark urine, jaundice, fever, or joint pain. Symptoms range from mild to severe, begin 15 to 50 days after exposure, may require hospitalization, and symptoms may persist for months, the news release said.

A release from the CDC says those who may have been exposed should contact their health care provider to get the two-dose series of vaccine. People who have been exposed to the virus can avoid getting sick if they are vaccinated 14 days after exposure. A single dose can immunize people against the disease for several years, but two doses are recommended for long-term immunity, the release said.

Marco’s owner Duane Arnold said the health and safety of his employer and employees is his top priority, and he and his employees began working with the CDC as soon as they learned of the health risks. Arnold said the CDC has determined the case is isolated and there is no immediate risk to the employer or employees. He said transparency is also a priority and he and staff will continue to work with the CDC to ensure continued safety.

“We understand that this concern may arise, but we stress that we take every precaution to prevent any potential health risks,” Arnold said. “Please note that we have been operating successfully for many, many years and we have always obtained sanitation Approval from the inspection department is required to continue the service. “We are fully committed to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness, safety and quality food. “

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