A case of hepatitis A has been diagnosed in an employee who handled food at Doc’s Bainbridge Restaurant located on U.S. 50 in Bainbridge. Ross County Health District is notifying patrons that ate at this restaurant from May 31st through June 9th that they may have been exposed to the Hepatitis A virus.
While the risk is low for restaurant patrons to become infected with hepatitis A virus due to an infected food handler, anyone who consumed food or drink at Doc’s Bainbridge Restaurant during the mentioned dates is recommended to receive vaccination within 14 days after eating at the restaurant as further protection from becoming ill. Vaccinations are available at the Ross County Health District at 150 E. 2nd St, Chillicothe, or your local pharmacy.
Those who ate at Doc's during the impacted time are also asked to Monitor their health for symptoms of hepatitis A infection up to 50 days after exposure. They should wash their hands with soap and warm water frequently and thoroughly, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing food. Stay at home and contact their healthcare provider immediately if symptoms of hepatitis A infection develop.
Hepatitis A is a viral infection of the liver that can cause loss of appetite, nausea, tiredness, fever, stomach pain, brown colored urine, and light colored stools. Yellowing of the skin or eyes may also appear. People can become ill up to 7 weeks after being exposed to the virus.
For more information, call the Ross County Health District at 740-775-1146.