Hepatitis A Infection in San Jose, California

Many of us get vaccinated for Hepatitis A only when we travel, but you don't have to go far to get this virus. Recently a food handler who worked at Jamba juice at 1140 Lincoln Ave in San Jose (Willow Glen), California has been diagnosed with hepatitis A infection. The food handler was contagious while he was working during several dates in August. Anyone who consumed juice at that site on August 1-3, 6-9, 11, 13-16 may have been exposed to hepatitis A although the risk is low.

Persons who have had the vaccine for hepatitis A in the past or the disease itself are immune and do not need to take any further action.

Those who have never had the vaccine or the disease should be aware of symptoms of Hepatitis A such as fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and jaundice (a yellowish tint) to the skin and to the eyes. The incubation period varies from 15-50 days. Hepatitis A vaccine can still be given to protect against future exposures to hepatitis.

If you have any questions please call The Santa Clara County Public Health Dept's Disease Prevention and Control at 408-885-3980.