According to the Peninsula Health District, people who ate or drank something at two Newport News restaurants in early August might be at risk of contracting Hepatitis A.
A food handler who worked at both Kebab House at 980 J. Clyde Morris Boulevard and Sunrise Pizzeria at 10158 Jefferson Avenue has been diagnosed with Hepatitis A, the health district said in a news release. People who ate or drank anything at Kebab House between Aug. 2–13 or Sunrise Pizzeria between Aug. 6–10 could be at risk, particularly those who’ve never been vaccinated against the disease or had an infection previously.
The virus causes liver inflammation, often resulting in fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine and light-colored schools, according to the Virginia Department of Health. It’s often associated with jaundice — yellowing of skin and eyes — as well.
It’s spread through direct contact, eating or drinking contaminated items or touching surfaces that have come in contact with it, so frequent hand washing after using the bathroom or changing a diaper and before preparing food is recommended. Symptoms usually develop about 15–20 days after people are exposed, the health district said.
People who are at particular risk, including un-vaccinated people, might benefit from a Hepatitis A vaccine if they get it within two weeks, before symptoms start to develop. The health district said it or urgent care clinics and pharmacies can administer the vaccine.