**** NSHA Media Release
Public Health warns of potential exposure to hepatitis A in Bridgewater
Public Health is investigating a confirmed case of hepatitis A in the Bridgewater area. While the overall risk to the public is low, there may have been individuals exposed to the virus.
Public Health is advising people who ate and/or drank food at Sushi Bay Japanese Cuisine (450 Lahave Street, Unit 170) in Bridgewater, between March 8 to 28, 2025, to monitor for symptoms of hepatitis A. If you have experienced the symptoms listed below or if they develop over the next five weeks, please contact your primary care provider or call your local Public Health office.
Symptoms are often mild and could include:
- Sudden onset of fever
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort
- Within a few days to a week, darkening of the urine and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
If symptoms are severe, please seek immediate healthcare.
Public Health has been directly in touch with people who are at higher risk of getting the infection and will be offering them vaccine, which will help protect them from getting ill.
There is currently no ongoing transmission of the virus at Sushi Bay. The management of the location has been very cooperative and supportive, helping us to reach contacts and distribute information.
Illness from hepatitis A usually lasts one to two weeks; however, some cases can last several months. Most individuals recover without treatment. However, in some cases, it may cause serious liver damage. Unlike hepatitis B and C, hepatitis A is not transmitted through blood and does not produce long-term (chronic) infections. When someone is infected with hepatitis A they may have no symptoms.
The most effective ways to prevent contracting hepatitis A and reduce your risk is:
- Washing your hands thoroughly and often with soap and warm water, especially before preparing food or eating.
- Getting vaccinated if you are at a greater likelihood of exposure.
More information is available at https://www.canada.ca/en/
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