January 21, 2006
The Vancouver Sun
Darah Hansen
VANCOUVER I Vancouver Coastal Health officials are warning that members of the public may have been exposed to the hepatitis A virus after a food handler at Foundation Eatery Lounge on Main Street became infected.
Restaurant patrons who ate humus, salad, sandwiches or raw vegetables at the
restaurant on Jan. 7, 8, 9 and 14 are most at risk of infection, Dr. Patricia
Daly said in a press release.
The infected employee has since taken sick leave and there is no current risk to
the public, Daly said.

Those who think they may have been exposed to the virus during the period of
time specified should receive a hepatitis A vaccination, which can prevent
illness.
Vaccinations will be available free of charge on a drop-in basis today between 2
and 4 p.m. at the Ravensong Community Health Centre at 2450 Ontario St.
Daly said the shot should be given as soon as possible, but not later than 14
days following exposure. She said the vaccination is not necessary for anyone
who has received one or more doses of hepatitis A vaccine since 1994.
Hepatitis A is a viral illness that affects the liver. Symptoms can include
nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, fatigue, fever, abdominal pain,
dark-coloured urine and jaundice. Symptoms usually start 15 to 20 days after
infection and the illness can last several weeks.
Hepatitis A can be life-threatening for the elderly, or those with other chronic
liver disease