Island Health has issued a public warning after a potential Hepatitis A exposure at a Dairy Queen location in Courtenay.
Although they report the risk of transmission to the public is low, if you consumed food at the restaurant between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. on September 10th, 12th, 13th or 14th, you should receive your free dose of hepatitis A vaccine within 14 days of your last visit to the restaurant.
The Dairy Queen in question is located at 1030 Cliffe Avenue in Courtenay.
According to Island Health, immunization for hepatitis A reduces the risk of infection if administered no later than 14 days after the possible exposure.
It’s available to get at the Comox Valley Health Unit located at 961 England Avenue in Courtenay. You don’t need an appointment.
The health unit’s hours are as follows:
- Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Wednesdays extended hours till 7 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (September 21st and 22nd only)
- Office is closed from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. daily
If you’re outside of Comox Valley, contact your local public health unit and ask about the vaccine.
Those who have been previously infected with hepatitis A or have received two doses of the vaccine don’t require further immunization.
In the meantime, Island Health recommends monitoring yourself for symptoms. Hepatitis A is a virus that affects the liver and in rare cases, can cause severe sickness. It can take two to seven weeks to develop after exposure and can last for up to two months.
The virus can be passed on to others via food preparation or other hand-to-mouth contact.
Symptoms include:
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Light-coloured stools
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Fever
- Flu-like symptoms
- Diarrhea
- Pain on the right side of the belly, under the rib cage (where your liver is)
If you notice these symptoms, please seek healthcare and let advisors know of possible contact from the restaurant.
