Patrons of Amherst restaurant may be exposed to hepatitis virus

If you travelled through Amherst this past month and stopped at a Tim Horton’s, you could be exposed to the virus that causes hepatitis A.

Nova Scotia Health said the risk is low but the agency is investigating a confirmed case of hepatitis A in that region.

Public Health is asking anyone who ate and/or drank food at the Tim Hortons location at 118 South Albion St. in Amherst between May 30 and June 14, and who have experienced the symptoms since June 15, or develop them over the next four weeks, to see a primary care provider.

Among those symptoms are a sudden onset of fever, loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and, within a few days to a week, darkening of the urine and yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Public Health has been in touch with people at higher risk of getting the infection and will be offering them a vaccine that will help protect them from getting ill.

Management at the location has been extremely cooperative and supportive, helping us reach contacts and distribute information.

The illness usually lasts one to two weeks; however, some cases can last several months and most individuals recover without treatment.

It may also cause serious liver damage. Unlike hepatitis B and C, hepatitis A is not transmitted through blood and does not produce long-term infections.

According to N.S. Health, someone infected with hepatitis A may not have symptoms.

People with questions about signs and symptoms of hepatitis A can call 811.