Urgent Health Alert: Potential Hepatitis A Exposure at New Westminster Panago Pizza Triggers Public Health Warning

Fraser Health has issued an urgent public health alert, advising patrons of a specific New Westminster Panago Pizza location about a potential exposure to Hepatitis A. The warning comes after an employee at the 1030 Columbia Street restaurant tested positive for the highly contagious liver infection, prompting immediate action from health authorities to safeguard community well-being.

Individuals who consumed any food or drink from this particular Panago outlet between Thursday, May 23, and Sunday, May 26, 2024, are urged to be vigilant.

While public health officials assess the risk of transmission to be low, they emphasize the importance of awareness and timely intervention, especially for those who might have been exposed during the specified period.

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver, and its symptoms can range from mild to severe.

Common indicators include fever, an unexpected loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. More distinct signs can emerge such as dark urine, light-coloured stool, and a yellowing of the skin or eyes, known as jaundice. The incubation period for the virus can vary significantly, typically between 15 to 50 days, with an average onset around 28 to 30 days post-exposure.

For those potentially exposed, Fraser Health strongly recommends considering a Hepatitis A vaccine, particularly if it can be administered within 14 days of the last potential exposure.

This timeframe is crucial for the vaccine to offer maximum protection against the virus. Those who fall outside this 14-day window or choose not to be vaccinated should closely monitor for any emerging symptoms and seek medical advice immediately if they appear.

To address concerns and provide further guidance, Fraser Health advises anyone who believes they may have been exposed to contact their local public health unit directly.

Alternatively, residents can dial 811 to speak with a registered nurse for health information and advice, available 24 hours a day. The restaurant management is fully cooperating with the investigation, and health officials have confirmed that there is no ongoing risk to the public at this location following the implementation of necessary health protocols.