Health department offering vaccinations after hepatitis A exposure at Queen Subs

The Cortland County Health Department (CCHD) confirms that a local restaurant worker has tested positive for hepatitis A. The individual is a food handler at Queen Subs. Health officials say the risk of infection is low, but if you ate or drank anything at the store between June 20 and July 3, you may need to be vaccinated or monitored for symptoms. Vaccines are effective within two weeks of exposure.

If you have consumed food or drink:

• And if you already have the hepatitis A vaccine, you are fully protected

• You must receive the vaccine by Friday 6/28 by Friday 12/7

• You must receive the vaccine on Tuesday 2/7 by Tuesday 16/7

• You must receive the vaccine on Wednesday 3/7 by Wednesday 17/7

• Between 20/06 and 27/06 you are already past the period in which you can receive the vaccine and you should monitor yourself for symptoms

Symptoms “usually appear within 28 days of exposure, with a range of 15 to 50 days.” Consult a doctor if you experience symptoms.

Symptoms:

• yellow skin or eyes

• loss of appetite, stomach upset, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea

• fever

• dark urine or light-colored stools

• joint pain

• fatigue

Infected people may feel ill for several weeks to several months, but usually recover completely. Rarely, hepatitis A can cause liver failure or death, especially among the elderly and people with serious or chronic health problems.

The Department of Health is offering vaccination clinics for people who may have been exposed. Register online below or call (607)345-1184.

Clinics:

• Friday 7/12 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

• Tuesday 16/7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m

According to CCHD, “the restaurant owner and staff are complying with all state and local health department recommendations. If you purchased food or drinks from Queen Subs after the 4th of July, there is currently no identified risk of exposure. ”

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