More than 600 people who dined at Houlihan’s Restaurant in Geneva this month have received shots to protect against infection after an employee was diagnosed with hepatitis “A.”

The Kane County Health Department is offering the immune globulin shots for free to anyone who ate at the restaurant between January Eighth and the 19th.  The shots will be offered through February Second at the Health Department clinics in Aurora.

Hepatitis “A” is spread by eating food or drinking water contaminated with fecal matter from an infected person who has not properly washed his or her hands.  The incubation period (from exposure to onset of symptoms) is 15-50 days, with an average of 30 days.  So, it is likely that if customers were exposed, we will see illnesses beginning today and for the next few weeks.  Let’s hope everyone gets a shot.

Over the last several years, Marler Clark has brought Hepatitis A claims against

Carl’s Jr.
Chi-Chi’s
D’Angelo’s
Friendly’s
Maple Lawn Dairy
McDonald’s
Quizno’s
Silver Grill Location Catering
Subway

So, it has come as no surprise that Houlihans, another restaurant, has been implicated.  According to Erika Wurst of the Suburban Chicago News:

A food worker at the restaurant has been diagnosed with the disease, which is spread by eating food or drinking water contaminated with fecal matter from an infected person, usually spread by improper hand washing.Anybody who dined at Houlihan’s restaurant in Geneva between Jan. 8 and Jan. 16 may have been exposed to hepatitis A, the Kane County Health Department said in a statement Friday.  Health officials are especially concerned about those diners who consumed beverages containing ice at the restaurant at 1322 Commons Drive.

Symptoms of hepatitis A, which include nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, fatigue, fever, abdominal pain, dark urine and yellow skin, usually develop 15-30 days after exposure to the virus, but diners are being urged to see their doctors immediately.

An immunoglobulin treatment can greatly reduce any effects from a possible hepatitis A infection and is effective within 14 days of exposure.

Health officials have set up a free clinic at 1330 N. Highland Ave in Aurora, where Houlihan’s patrons will be offered treatment.

For more information about Hepatitis, visit www.about-hepatitis.com and for current legal cases, see www.hepatitislitigation.com or keep reading below.