An employee at an organic juice bar in the city's east end has contracted hepatitis A and other customers may have been exposed to the virus, Toronto Public Health confirms.
In a statement released on Saturday, the public health agency says customers who consumed juice from the Big Carrot Juice Bar between March 17, and April 2, 2015, may be at risk of contracting the virus.
The Big Carrot is located at 348 Danforth Ave.
"While the risk is low, individuals who consumed fresh organic juice from this food market during these dates should get a hepatitis A vaccination as soon as possible," the statement said.
The Big Carrot says it is working with the TPH in handling the situation. "So far only one individual is involved and it appears to be a very low risk," the company said in a statement. "At this time, we are gathering all the facts for our staff and customers."
The TPH says symptoms of the disease can appear 15 to 50 days after becoming infected, and it is possible to be infected and not exhibit any symptoms at all.
Common symptoms of hepatitis A include:
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea/vomiting
- Dark urine
- Stomach pains
- Jaundice
The TPH says the virus is rarely fatal, however, those with chronic liver disease may be at greater risk.
The hepatitis A vaccine is most effective when received within 14 days of exposure.
The TPH is holding a free hepatitis A vaccine clinic on Sunday, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the East York Civic Centre located at 850 Coxwell Ave.
