The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is investigating after an employee at a Whole Foods Market in Beverly Hills tested positive for hepatitis A. Customers who purchased seafood products at the counter where the employee worked between April 20 and May 13 are being advised to receive a vaccine for hepatitis A if they are not already immune. Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection that can cause symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and yellowing of the skin and eyes. While mild cases may last a few weeks, more severe cases can last several months and, in rare instances, lead to death.
The Whole Foods Market in question is located at 239 North Crescent Drive in Beverly Hills, California. Although no additional cases of hepatitis A have been reported, health officials are conducting an investigation. The virus typically spreads when a person unknowingly ingests the virus from contaminated objects, food, or drinks. There is no specific antiviral treatment for hepatitis A, but receiving a prompt vaccination is likely to prevent infection. Older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems may also benefit from receiving immune globulin in addition to a vaccine.
Health officials have warned patrons who develop symptoms of hepatitis A to contact their healthcare provider and request a hepatitis A test. In some cases, infection may still occur in individuals who receive vaccination too late. The department also reported an outbreak of hepatitis A among the homeless population in Los Angeles County earlier in the week, detecting the first case in mid-March. At the time of the release, at least five other individuals had been infected.
Symptoms of hepatitis A can include sudden weakness, clay or gray-colored stool, dark urine, and abdominal pain. Those who have not previously received the hepatitis A vaccine or had a previous infection may not be protected from the virus. Receiving vaccination as soon as possible after exposure could help reduce the risk of developing a hepatitis A infection. It is important for individuals who purchased seafood products at the affected counter during the specified period to take the necessary precautions and seek medical advice if they experience any symptoms associated with hepatitis A.
