Los Angeles County health officials are investigating multiple reported cases of hepatitis A, including one at a Whole Foods supermarket in Beverly Hills. Anyone who purchased products from the seafood counter at the market located on 239 North Crescent Drive between April 20 and May 13 is urged to get vaccinated if they are not already immune.
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection that can range from a mild illness to a severe one lasting several months. The virus spreads through the stool and blood of infected individuals or contaminated food.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health reported earlier this week that hepatitis A is spreading among the city's homeless population due to limited access to handwashing and bathroom facilities. Five cases have been identified since March, with no additional cases related to the Whole Foods investigation as of yet.
Whole Foods said they are working closely with health officials and encouraging anyone who believes they may have been exposed to follow the guidance of the health department. The team member diagnosed is not working, and no other cases have been reported among employees or customers.
The infection can manifest as fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dark urine or yellowing of the eyes and skin. Receiving vaccination as soon as possible after exposure could help reduce the risk of developing hepatitis A infection. Residents should contact their local pharmacy or medical provider for the vaccine.
California experienced a hepatitis A outbreak between 2016 and 2018, mostly among homeless populations or drug users. The virus can be prevented through vaccination, but there is no specific antiviral treatment once infected.
Public health officials advise that older adults and people with weakened immune systems may need to receive immune globulin and the vaccine to prevent infection after exposure.
