Possible Hepatitis A Transmission in Siler City

The Chatham County Health Department is urging customers of a Siler City Burger King to get immunized for possible Hepatitis A.

Health Director Holly Coleman says that anyone who ate food at the Burger King on East 11th Street on August 2 and 3 from 6pm to closing may be at risk for developing Hepatitis A.

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SYMPTOMS OF HEPATITIS A

The early signs and symptoms of Hepatitis A appear 2-6 weeks after exposure and commonly include mild fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness, pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, dark urine, light color stools and jaundice (yellowness of eyes or skin).

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Hepatitis A virus is usually spread when a person ingests fecal matter–even in microscopic amounts–from contact with objects, food, or drinks contaminated by feces or stool of an infected person. Persons are at increased risk of acquiring Hepatitis A when they have been in close and continuous contact with an infected individual, particularly in a household or day care setting. Fecal matter can remain on the hands unless hands are washed often and thoroughly.

Careful handwashing is key to preventing spread of Hepatitis A and should include vigorous washing of hands with soap and running water for minimum of 20 seconds. All surfaces should be washed including the back of the hands, wrists, between fingers and under fingernails.

(Information provided by Chatham County Health Dept)