Lethbridge News

Alberta Health Services issued a release earlier today reporting an employee from the Scenic Drive McDonald’s downtown has been diagnosed with Hepatitis A. Anyone who ate there 20–22 August 2010 may have been exposed and should see his/her physician.

Alberta Health Services will be offering vaccine through clinics at the West Pavilion of Exhibition Park today from 1:30–19:00, tomorrow from 9:00–15:00, and Sunday from 9:00–15:00. The vaccine is effective if administered within 14 days of exposure only.

“While we believe the risk to the public is low, hepatitis A is a serious infection,” says Dr. Lorne Clearsky, Medical Officer of Health, Alberta Health Services – South Zone. “A vaccine administered within 14 days of exposure can greatly reduce the risk for patrons who consumed food or beverages at this location during this timeframe.”

Alberta Health Services believes the employee contracted the disease while travelling abroad. Thorough inspection of this McDonald’s location confirmed it meets all standards and will not be closed.

Hepatitis A infects the liver. It is generally contracted through direct contact with an infected person, but can be contracted through consuming contaminated food and water. Illness can occur within 15–50 days after exposure, and those contracting the illness may not show symptoms until a week after onset.

Early symptoms include tiredness, poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. Later symptoms include dark urine, light stools, and yellowing of the eyes and skin.