Halton Region Public Health has been notified of a case of hepatitis A in a food handler who worked at the RattleSnake Point Golf Club Bistro located at 5407 Regional Road 25 in Milton, between April 20 and May 2, 2023. Patrons of the RattleSnake Point Golf Club Bistro who visited during this period may have been exposed. The golf club is working closely with Halton Region Public Health, and is contacting affected patrons.

Hepatitis A is an infectious disease caused by a virus that attacks the liver. Symptoms usually occur within 28 to 30 days after the virus enters the body, but they can begin any time between 15 to 50 days after exposure.

“While the risk of transmission is low, we are advising that anyone who may have been exposed monitor for signs and symptoms for 50 days from the date of their exposure,” said Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region. “Hepatitis A can result in a liver infection and can be a greater health risk for older adults and those with liver disease.”

Hepatitis A vaccine given within 14 days of exposure may prevent the disease. Individuals who have received two doses of the hepatitis A vaccine or have had hepatitis A infection do not require the vaccine.

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Halton Region Public Health strongly recommends that:

  • anyone who visited the restaurant on April 29, April 30 and May 2 and have not received the vaccine or have immunity should get the hepatitis A vaccine at free immunization clinics (no appointment necessary) being offered at 550 Ontario Street South in Milton on:
    • Friday, May 12 from 3 to 6 p.m.
    • Saturday, May 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    • Monday, May 15 from 3 to 6 p.m.
  • all patrons who ate or drank at the restaurant at the dates and times below should monitor for symptoms of hepatitis A and contact their health care provider if they experience symptoms:
    • April 20, 22, 23
    • April 25-27
    • April 29-30
    • May 2

Common symptoms of hepatitis A include:

  • fever
  • general feeling of discomfort, illness, or uneasiness
  • abdominal discomfort
  • loss of appetite
  • tiredness
  • nausea and vomiting
  • dark urine
  • jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Hepatitis A is spread from person-to-person by putting something in the mouth that has been contaminated with the stool of a person that has the disease. Once infected, a person can pass the virus to others for two weeks or more before they even know they are sick. For those who have had close contact with a person with hepatitis A, a vaccine is available that can help prevent you from getting sick if it is given within 14 days of contact with the ill person.

To help prevent hepatitis A infection:

  • wash hands thoroughly using soap and water, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers and before handling or eating food;
  • avoid eating raw fish or shellfish;
  • avoid sharing food and common items such as water bottles and cutlery;
  • drink properly treated or bottled water if travelling outside of Canada; and
  • consider getting the hepatitis A immunization if travelling where the disease is common or your personal and or professional life puts you at risk for the disease.