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WAYNE COUNTY CONFIRMS HEP A CASE AT RESTAURANT IN PLYMOUTH

Wayne County, MI- The Wayne County Department of Health, Veterans and Community Wellness (HVCW) has confirmed a case of Hepatitis A in a food service worker of Omelette and Waffle Cafe at 580 Forest Avenue in Plymouth, Michigan.

The facility was inspected on Sept. 11, is open for business, and is working with HVCW during the investigation. HVCW staff vaccinated employees of the facility today.

Hepatitis A is a vaccine preventable disease. If given within 14 days of exposure, Hepatitis A vaccine or immunoglobulin can prevent illness. Patrons who consumed food or beverages from the Omelette and Waffle Caf%130 in Plymouth between Aug. 17, and Sept. 4, should get vaccinated by Sept. 18 to prevent getting the disease.

HVCW will be holding a vaccination clinic, at Plymouth City Hall on 201 S. Main Street in Plymouth on Saturday, Sept. 15 from 8 am to noon, for anyone who ate at the establishment between Aug. 17 and Sept. 4. Some individuals, including people who have a weakened immune system or liver disease, should talk with their doctor about getting immunoglobulin.

Wayne County health officials are also advising people who consumed food from the establishment during the above time period to watch for symptoms of Hepatitis A which can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dark urine, clay-colored stool, fever, chills, yellow skin and eyes (jaundice). Hepatitis A symptoms occur between 15 and 50 days after exposure.

With the ongoing outbreak of Hepatitis A, HVCW urges all residents to get vaccinated for Hepatitis A. Individuals who use injection and non-injection drugs, those in homeless and transient living conditions, men who have sex with men, and those with a history of Hepatitis C or other liver disease are at particular risk for the disease and should get vaccinated against Hepatitis A. Individuals should consult with their physician to determine if they are at high risk.

The best way to prevent the spread of Hepatitis A is:

· Getting your Hepatitis A vaccine

· Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom or changing a diaper

· Thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water during food preparation and before eating food

· Avoiding undercooked or raw shellfish

· Not preparing food for others if you are ill

If you do not have insurance coverage, Hepatitis A vaccine is available at the Wayne County HVCW Clinic located at 33030 Van Born Road in Wayne, Michigan. Vaccine may also be available at many clinics and pharmacies. More information about Hepatitis A is available at www.michigan.gov/hepatitisaoutbreak or call Wayne County at 734-727-7078.

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