VCH Warns of Hepatitis A Exposure at Sunshine Coast Eatery

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) has issued a second hepatitis A exposure notification for the Sunshine Coast, alerting the public about potential contamination at Pepper Creek Pizza and Pasta. The establishment, located at 4330 Sunshine Coast Highway in Wilson Creek, is linked to possible exposure for individuals who consumed salads between July 31 and August 14, as well as from August 23 to August 29, 2023.

This notification follows a recent alert regarding Sea Monkey Coffee near Gibsons, which warned of exposure for diners from August 1 to August 25. Importantly, the Gibsons notice does not extend to customers of other establishments at 1632 Sunshine Coast Highway, nor does it include those who dined at the food truck outside the specified dates or who only consumed beverages.

Vaccination is crucial for those potentially exposed to the virus. VCH advises anyone who consumed salads at Pepper Creek between August 23 and August 29, or those who dined at Sea Monkey Coffee from August 15 to August 25, to receive a hepatitis A vaccine as soon as possible. The vaccine is effective if administered within two weeks of exposure and is available at various clinics and pharmacies across the region.

VCH emphasized that while the risk of transmission to the public is low, it is important for individuals who visited these locations during the specified dates to monitor themselves for symptoms. Hepatitis A symptoms can take between two to seven weeks to manifest and may persist for approximately two months. Symptoms include extreme fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, unintentional weight loss, abdominal pain, fever, muscle aches, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, and clay-colored stools.

Anyone experiencing symptoms is urged to consult their healthcare provider. According to the VCH notification, “In most cases, the infection goes away on its own and does not lead to long-term liver problems. In rare cases, it can be more serious.” Individuals who have previously contracted hepatitis A or have received two doses of the vaccine before exposure are considered protected.

For further information about hepatitis A, residents can visit the VCH website at vch.ca/en/health-topics/hepatitis-a. Those who suspect they may have been infected are encouraged to contact HealthLink BC at 811 for guidance.