PORTLAND, Maine — Editor's note: The video above originally aired on Oct. 4, 2023.
A case of hepatitis A has been identified at a Portland restaurant, state health officials say.
The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention wrote in a news release Friday it identified a case of hepatitis A in a Portland food service worker.
Hepatitis A is a contagious liver disease caused by a virus, the Maine CDC said. It can spread through person-to-person contact or by consuming contaminated food or water.
According to the Maine CDC, the individual worked during their infectious period at Green Elephant Bistro in Portland on the following dates:
- 9/21 (dinner only)
- 9/23 (lunch and dinner)
- 9/24 (dinner only)
- 9/27 (dinner only)
- 9/28 (lunch and dinner)
- 9/30 (lunch and dinner)
- 10/1 (dinner only)
- 10/4 (dinner only)
- 10/5 (dinner only)
The Maine CDC said anyone who dined at this restaurant during these days could be at risk for hepatitis A infection.
"Customers who purchased and/or ate takeout food or drink from this restaurant during these days are not known to have been exposed. The restaurant is working closely with Maine CDC and has reported no ongoing exposure after these dates," the release stated.
Officials added anyone can prevent getting hepatitis A with a vaccine.
"People exposed to hepatitis A can avoid getting sick if they get the vaccine within 14 days of the exposure. If you think you were exposed and may need a vaccine, contact a healthcare provider. Hepatitis A vaccines are also available at some pharmacies without a prescription," the release said.
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