Deli patrons urged to get hepatitis A vaccinations because of infected employee

A case of hepatitis A has been diagnosed in an employee who recently handled food at Zayde’s Deli in Memphis, TN. The employee worked during a period of time when ill or infectious and potentially exposed customers to the virus.

Anyone who consumed food or drink at Zayde’s Deli at 6560 Poplar Ave. or consumed take-out meals from the restaurant between June 29 and July 7, is advised to receive a hepatitis A vaccination as soon as possible as a preventative measure.

Potentially exposed people may receive the vaccination from their health care provider or from one of the local health department’s clinics listed here: https://www.shelbytnhealth.com/Facilities. While no appointment is needed, appointments may be made by calling the appointment line at 901-222-9980.

Hepatitis A is usually transmitted from person to person through contact with contaminated feces or consumption of contaminated food or water. Symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, dark urine, weight loss and yellow skin and eyes.

“If given within 14 days of exposure, the hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection among those exposed to the virus,” said Shelby County Health Officer Dr. Bruce Randolph. “The Health Department is offering hepatitis A vaccination free of charge to those who may have been exposed at this restaurant.”

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