May 1, 2019
DOH-HERNANDO IDENTIFIES CASE OF
HEPATITIS A IN FOOD SERVICE WORKER; 5
ENCOURAGES VACCINATION Ori
HEALTH
Contact: ——
Ashley D. Thomas Hernando County
Ashley. Thomas@flhealth.gov
352-540-6303
Brooksville, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Hernando County (DOH-Hernando)
has identified a positive case of hepatitis A in a food service worker at the Silverthorn Country
Club Restaurant in Spring Hill, FL. The employee may have exposed patrons between April 12 -
30, 2019.
Hepatitis A vaccine or immune globulin (IG) may provide protection against the disease if given
within two weeks after exposure. Therefore, Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for anyone
who ate or drank between April 17 — 30 at the restaurant, which is located at 4550 Golf Club
Lane. Concerned Silverthorn customers can call DOH-Hemando at 362-247-6111 to leave their
information and a call-back number to speak directly with a nurse.
DOH-Hernando is also offering the hepatitis A vaccine for free at the Spring Hill location
of the Health Department with extended hours May 1 —3 and May 6 ~ 8 until 7 p.m
Person who consumed any food or beverage from this restaurant from April 12 — 16 may have
also been exposed to the hepatitis A virus. Patrons should monitor for symptoms of hepatitis A
infection which include sudden onset of abdominal discomfort, dark urine, fever, diarrhea, pale
white stools, and yellow skin and eyes (jaundice). Anyone experiencing these symptoms should
seek medical attention promptly.
Hernando County has seen a significant increase in hepatitis A cases. In 2019, the number of
cases of locally identified hepatitis A infections in Hernando County is 39, compared to 6 cases
in 2018, and 2 cases from 2014-2016
Health Department
7551 Forest Oaks Blvd. Spring Hill, FL 34606
8 a.m-5 p.m.
352-540-6800
About the Florida Department of Health
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