Sarasota County health officials have identified a positive case of hepatitis A in a food service worker at Duval’s at 1435 Main Street Sarasota. The employee may have exposed patrons between April 26 through May 10, 2019.
You will receive the first dose of the hepatitis A immunization. The second dose is provided six months after the first. If you have previously received the hepatitis A vaccine you do not need to take additional action.
The hepatitis A vaccine may provide protection against the disease if given within two weeks after exposure. Therefore, the hep A vaccine is recommended for anyone who ate, or drank at Duval’s between May 3 through 10.
Patrons should monitor for symptoms of hepatitis A infection which include sudden onset of abdominal discomfort, dark urine, fever, diarrhea, pale white stools, and yellow skin and eyes (jaundice). Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
DOH – Sarasota is offering the hepatitis A vaccine for free at our Sarasota, and North Port Immunization Clinics.
DOH – Sarasota, 2200 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota 34237
Ringling Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursdays: 8 – 11 a.m. and 12:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Tuesdays: 8 – 11 a.m.
Fridays: 8 – 11 a.m. and 12:30 – 3:30 p.m.
DOH – Sarasota, North Port, 6950 Outreach Way, North Port 34287
North Port Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursdays: 8 – 11:30 a.m. and 1 – 4:30 p.m.
Tuesdays: 8 – 11:30 a.m.
Fridays: 8 – 11:30 a.m. and 1 – 3:30 p.m.
Concerned Duval’s patrons can call DOH – Sarasota at (941) 861-2900 for hepatitis A information to receive a vaccine this weekend.
Sarasota County has seen a significant increase in hepatitis A cases. In 2019, the number of cases of locally identified hepatitis A infections in Sarasota County is 7, compared to 2 cases in 2018, and 2 cases from 2014-2016.