Urgent Health Alert: Possible Hepatitis A Exposure in Gibsons, BC – VCH Issues Public Warning

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) has issued a significant public health warning regarding potential Hepatitis A exposure at a popular restaurant in Gibsons, British Columbia. The alert comes after a food service worker at Sushi Bar Nagomi (now operating as Sushi Bar) tested positive for the highly contagious liver infection, prompting immediate action to safeguard public health.

Customers who dined at the restaurant between December 22, 2023, and January 21, 2024, are urged to be vigilant and take appropriate precautions.

While the overall risk of contracting Hepatitis A is considered low for the general public, individuals who consumed food from the establishment during this specific timeframe could be at risk.

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver, causing inflammation and a range of symptoms from mild to severe.

It is typically spread through the fecal-oral route, often by consuming contaminated food or water, or through close personal contact with an infected individual. Symptoms can include fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dark urine, pale stools, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). The incubation period for the virus can range from 15 to 50 days, with an average of 28 to 30 days, meaning symptoms may not appear immediately after exposure.

For those potentially exposed, VCH emphasizes the importance of monitoring for symptoms.

Crucially, vaccination can be highly effective in preventing infection if administered within 14 days of exposure. To facilitate this, VCH is proactively organizing drop-in vaccination clinics specifically for affected individuals.

These vital clinics will be held on February 2nd and 3rd, 2024, at the Gibsons Public Health office.

Unvaccinated individuals who ate at Sushi Bar Nagomi (or Sushi Bar) during the specified exposure period are strongly encouraged to attend these clinics. Those who are already fully vaccinated against Hepatitis A or have a history of prior infection are generally not considered at risk and do not require vaccination.

However, anyone who was exposed outside the 14-day vaccination window should still closely monitor for symptoms.

VCH is committed to providing comprehensive support and information during this time. For more details on Hepatitis A, symptoms to watch for, or to confirm if you require vaccination, the public is advised to visit the VCH website or contact their dedicated call centre.

Swift action and awareness are key to mitigating further spread and ensuring the health and safety of the Gibsons community.