Second Contoocook Restaurant Worker Has Hepatitis A

State officials are investigating a second food service worker that has contracted Hepatitis A while employed at the Covered Bridge Restaurant in Contoocook.

Dr. Jose Montero, New Hampshire’s public health director, said the second worker who had contacted the illness received it from the previous employee reported earlier this month.

“I want to assure everyone that all the necessary public health steps were taken to prevent any additional cases,” Montero said in a statement, adding that the “risk of exposure” appeared to be “extremely low” but that officials were working to ID anyone who may be sick.

The state estimates that between 100 and 200 people may have been exposed to the illness from the employees, according to a statement.

Montero said the infected worker was employed at the restaurant on Aug. 13, and Aug. 20. Anyone who ate at the restaurant on those dates should be aware of potential symptoms. If you were a customer at the restaurant on Aug. 20, there is still time to receive a vaccine. If you've already been vaccinated or have had Hepatitis A in the past, you don't need another vaccine. 

The state along with the Capital Area Public Health Network is offering vaccination clinics to anyone who thinks they may have been exposed to the virus. The clinics will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 30, and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Aug. 31, at Bow High School, 32 White Rock Hill Road, in Bow.

The New England Poison Control Center can also assist anyone in the public who might have questions about Hepatitis A and upcoming clinics at 800-562-8236. Information can also be found online at dhhs.nh.gov or capitalareaprepares.com.