The Florida Department of Health in Indian River has identified a positive case of hepatitis A in a food service worker in Vero Beach.
The agency conducted an epidemiological investigation and determined an individual who worked at Pizza Mia, located at 1115 21st Street in Vero Beach, from July 19 through July 23 may have been infectious.
The hepatitis A vaccine may protect against the disease if given within two weeks after exposure.
The Department of Health is recommending the hepatitis A vaccination for anyone who ate or drank at Pizza Mia’s between July 19 through July 23.
“If you don’t obtain the vaccination within two weeks of your exposure date, you will be outside the Vaccination Window, and should instead observe for signs and symptoms of hepatitis A infection,” The Department of Health in Indian River County said in a statement.
If you previously have received the hepatitis A vaccine or have had a past history of hepatitis A infection, you are considered immune to the virus and do not need to take additional action.
Those with specific questions about exposure to hepatitis A at Pizza Mia can call (772) 794-7475 to reach the Department of Health Indian River Epidemiology Staff.
The Department of Health is encouraging all healthcare providers, including hospital emergency departments to stay on high alert and immediately report cases of hepatitis A, as well as identify those who would benefit from vaccination.
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious disease that attacks the liver. People infected with hepatitis A are most contagious from two weeks before the onset of symptoms to one week afterward. Not everyone who is infected will have all the symptoms. Symptoms usually start within 28 days of exposure to the virus with a range of 15-50 days.
Symptoms include:
- Jaundice (yellowing skin and whites of eyes)
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue/tired
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Dark-colored urine
- Pale or clay-colored stool
Hepatitis A vaccine is the best method of preventing infection. No medicines can cure the disease once symptoms appear. People with hepatitis A symptoms should seek medical care immediately.
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