The Multnomah County Health Department is looking into two confirmed cases of Hepatitis A in restaurant workers at two Cup & Saucer Cafe locations in Portland.

Hepatitis A/CDC
Hepatitis A/CDC

Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. It most often causes a temporary illness that can include: fever, tiredness, belly pain, vomiting, diarrhea and jaundice (a yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Hepatitis A spreads easily from person to person by swallowing the virus which is in the feces of an infected person. It can be spread by poor handwashing after using the toilet or changing diapers, or by eating food prepared by an infected person. It can also be spread by sexual contact. Hepatitis A is not spread by saliva. People can spread hepatitis A without realizing it.

If you think you have been exposed contact your healthcare provider.

  • Multnomah County Health Department Primary Care – Concerned patients should call their clinic for instructions.
  • Providence – Members concerned about possible exposure should call their clinic. If they have questions about their coverage, they should call Providence Health Plan at 503-574-7400.
  • Kaiser Permanente – Members concerned about possible Hepatitis A exposure can contact the Kaiser advice nurse at 1-800-813-2000.
  • Legacy – Patients with a Legacy primary care provider should contact their clinic. If you don’t currently have a primary care provider, call the 503-335-3500 for assistance.

Hepatitis A vaccine

The best way to prevent hepatitis A is by getting vaccinated. There are vaccines that can lower the risk of getting sick if they are given within 2 weeks of coming in contact with the virus.  Check with your provider about vaccine or other care options.

If you don’t have a provider or you can’t get into your provider in time, vaccines are available through the Multnomah County Immunization Clinic. Walk-in clinic hours are:

  •   April 5th, through April 7th, 9:00AM – 4:00PM
  •   April 8th, 10:00AM – 2:00PM
  •   April 10th, through April 12th, 9:00AM – 4:00PM

Also, you may be able to get the vaccine at your local pharmacy. Call them directly to find out more.

Hepatitis A is now a required vaccine for Oregon children up to 8th grade. So if your school-aged child is up to date on vaccinations, they are protected.

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