Second Hepatitis A Exposure Notification Issued for Sunshine Coast

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) has alerted the public regarding a second potential exposure to hepatitis A in the Sunshine Coast area. This notification pertains to patrons of Pepper Creek Pizza and Pasta, located at 4330 Sunshine Coast Highway in Wilson Creek (part of Sechelt). Individuals who consumed salads at this establishment between July 31 and August 14, as well as from August 23 to August 29, may have been exposed to the virus.

The alert follows a previous notification issued for Sea Monkey Coffee, located at Sunday Cider outside of Gibsons, covering the period of August 1 to August 25. It is important to note that the exposure at Sea Monkey Coffee does not affect customers of other businesses at 1632 Sunshine Coast Highway, including the cidery itself, nor those who consumed only beverages from the venue.

Vaccination is a critical preventive measure. VCH advises that hepatitis A vaccines are effective if administered within two weeks of exposure. Individuals who dined at Pepper Creek between August 23 and August 29 or at Sea Monkey Coffee between August 15 and August 25 should seek vaccination as soon as possible. Clinics and pharmacies throughout the region are offering these vaccines.

Symptoms and Recommendations for Monitoring

Although the risk of transmission to the general public is considered low, VCH Public Health recommends that anyone who consumed food from either location during the specified dates monitor themselves for symptoms of hepatitis A. Symptoms can take between two to seven weeks to appear after exposure and may last for approximately two months.

Typical symptoms include extreme fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, unintended weight loss, abdominal pain on the right side beneath the rib cage (where the liver is located), fever, muscle aches, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, and pale stools. Individuals experiencing symptoms are urged to consult their healthcare provider promptly.

In most instances, hepatitis A infection resolves on its own without leading to long-term liver complications. However, in rare cases, it can result in more severe health issues. Those who have previously contracted hepatitis A or who have received two doses of the vaccine prior to exposure are deemed protected against the virus.

For additional information regarding hepatitis A, individuals can visit the VCH website at vch.ca/en/health-topics/hepatitis-a. Anyone suspecting they may have been infected is encouraged to contact HealthLink BC at 811 for guidance.