HONOLULU (KHON2) -- The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed a case of hepatitis A involving a food service worker at Hana Koa Brewing Company.
DOH is alerting anyone who consumed food or drinks from the brewery between August 3 and August 16, 2024, about potential exposure.
If you haven't been vaccinated against hepatitis A and show symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, or jaundice, contact your healthcare provider right away and mention your possible exposure.
Early diagnosis can guide proper care and help prevent the disease's further spread. Post-exposure prevention is most effective if administered within two weeks of exposure.
It’s important to note that Hana Koa Brewing Company had no food safety violations connected to this case. The risk of patrons contracting the virus is considered very low.
Nevertheless, the DOH Disease Outbreak Control Division is notifying the public to encourage those affected to seek medical advice.
The brewery has cooperated fully, excluding ill or exposed food handlers to eliminate any ongoing risk.
Hepatitis A symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, dark urine, diarrhea, and jaundice.
Those showing symptoms should stay home and consult their healthcare provider. There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A beyond rest and self-care; the virus typically resolves independently.
Hepatitis A is usually spread through close contact or consuming contaminated food or drinks. Since 2006, routine vaccination has been recommended for children ages 12-23 months and youth ages 2-18 who haven’t been previously vaccinated.
The vaccine is highly effective and provides long-term protection.
In addition to vaccination, individuals can help prevent the spread of hepatitis A through safe cooking practices and frequent handwashing with soap and warm water, especially after using the restroom or handling food.
For more information about hepatitis A, visit the DOH website at DOH Hepatitis A Information. To find a nearby pharmacy offering the hepatitis A vaccine, visit Vaccine Locators.