SFDPH Health Alert: Multi-State Outbreak of Hepatitis A June 3, 2013 Physician Resource, Public Health, SF Dept of Public Health health alert, Hepatitis A, SFDPH 0 The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced an investigation concerning an outbreak of Hepatitis A in persons who consumed Townsend Farms Organic Anti-oxidant Blend frozen berry mix. So far 30 cases have been reported in 5 states including California (none in San Francisco). The product has been widely distributed by Costco markets. The product may also have been sold through other outlets. The San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) is working with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to provide further guidance for the public and clinical providers. Early signs of hepatitis A appear 2-6 weeks after exposure. Symptoms commonly include mild fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, right upper abdominal pain, dark urine and jaundice. Clinicians should report suspected cases to SFDPH Communicable Disease Control at (415) 554-2830. Hepatitis A vaccination can prevent illness if given within 2 weeks of exposure to the contaminated product. Standard recommendations for post-exposure prophylaxis of exposed persons can be found by clicking here. San Francisco residents who believe they may have been exposed to the contaminated frozen berry product should contact their medical provider, or may call 311 (from within the 415 area code) or (415) 701-2311 for more information. Click here to view the SFDPH health alert on the Hepatitis A outbreak. For more information about health alerts, advisories, and updates from the San Francisco Department of Public Health, please visit http://www.sfcdcp.org/healthalerts.html. Comments are closed.
