Toronto Public Health Issues Hepatitis A Exposure Alert Linked to Downtown Restaurant
TORONTO — Toronto Public Health (TPH) is advising residents of a potential Hepatitis A exposure risk at Earls Kitchen + Bar, located at 601 King Street West, after a confirmed case was identified in an employee.
Officials are urging anyone who dined at the restaurant on specific dates to get vaccinated promptly. Exposure risk may have occurred during the following time windows:
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Friday, July 11: 4 p.m. to close
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Saturday, July 12: 4:30 p.m. to close
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Tuesday, July 15: 4:30 p.m. to close
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Wednesday, July 16: 7 p.m. to close
According to TPH, Hepatitis A is transmitted from person to person via the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated food handled by infected individuals. The virus is not airborne and does not spread through coughing or sneezing.
Vaccination Clinics Open This Weekend
The Hepatitis A vaccine is most effective when received within 14 days of exposure. TPH will host free vaccine clinics at Metro Hall (55 John Street) for anyone who may have been exposed:
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Friday, July 25: 4 to 7 p.m.
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Saturday, July 26: 4 to 6:30 p.m.
Entry will be through the Wellington Street entrance, with paid underground parking available.
Understanding Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a viral infection affecting the liver. Symptoms may appear 15 to 50 days after exposure and can range from mild to severe. Infected individuals may experience:
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Fever
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Fatigue
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Loss of appetite
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Nausea or vomiting
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Dark urine
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Stomach pains
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Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
While most people recover completely and develop lifetime immunity, older adults and those with chronic liver disease are at a higher risk of severe illness or hospitalization.
Preventive measures include vaccination, frequent handwashing with soap and warm water, washing fresh produce, avoiding food preparation when ill, and ensuring safe water consumption when traveling.
Anyone experiencing symptoms or concerned about exposure should contact TPH at 416-338-7600 or speak with a healthcare provider. More information is available on the City of Toronto’s Hepatitis A webpage.
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