Possible Hepatitis A Exposure At Courtenay Dairy Queen

Island Health is warning of possible Hepatitis A exposure for people who dined recently at the Courtenay Dairy Queen.

Although the risk of transmission to the public is low, Island Health Public Health recommends that people who ate at the restaurant between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. on September 10, 12, 13, or 14 should receive a free dose of hepatitis A vaccine within 14 days of their last visit to the restaurant.

Island Health says for best protection, the vaccine should be received as soon as possible.

The vaccine is available at the Comox Valley Health Unit (961 England Avenue, Courtenay) and no appointment is needed:

Those who are outside the Comox Valley should contact their local Public Health unit.

Hepatitis A is a virus that affects the liver and in some rare cases, it can cause severe sickness.

The virus can be passed on to others through food preparation or other hand-to-mouth contact.

Find more information about hepatitis A symptoms, causes, tests, treatments and prevention at BCCDC.