School, Restaurant Warned About Possible Hepatitis A Exposure

Health officials have warned parents about possible Hepatitis A exposure since a Mercer County restaurant, whose food worker was hospitalized with the disease, served lunches to a local school.

St. Raphael’s School, which neighbors Rosa’s Restaurant and Catering, has its lunches provided by the restaurant, according to Hamilton Township officials. Hamilton Mayor Kelly A. Yaede sent a letter home to parents warning of possible exposure.

“The Hamilton Township Department of Health has been notified that your child may have been exposed to Hepatitis A infection through food consumption from your school lunch program. More than likely your child has already been vaccinated for Hepatitis A by their pediatrician/healhtcare provider and therefore have no risk of contracting Hepatitis A. Please contact your pediatrician/healthcare provider to determine if you child has received the vaccination for Hepatitis A.”

Health officials are warning anyone who ate at, or catered from Rosa’s Restaurant and Catering on South Broad Street in Hamilton since Nov. 10 are at risk of developing Hepatitis A.

The Hamilton restaurant confirmed on its Facebook page that a provisional employee - someone who was being reviewed for possible employment - was found to have Hepatitis A.

“We immediately stopped operations at our restaurant so that all open foods could be discarded, food areas sanitized,” according to the restaurant’s statement.

“It’s been a tough day for us....but, we are uplifted by our friends - who are with us always. Thank you. YOU ARE ANGELS...,” the restaurant posted on its Facebook page.

Seven employees received precautionary vaccines, and all of employees will do so before returning to work, according to restaurant.

Yaede announced a Hepatitis A vaccination clinic because of the recent Hepatitis A public health issue. Anybody who ate food at, or from, Rosa’s between Nov. 10 and Dec. 1 and has not been previously vaccinated for Hepatitis A should attend.

Anyone exhibiting symptoms, which include mild fever, fatigue and vomiting, should contact their doctor. Hepatitis A is a disease that affects your liver’s ability to function. It usually lasts between four and six weeks. Information on the virus can be found by clicking here.

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