NORTH PORT – A North Port restaurant employee on the Suncoast has tested positive for Hepatitis A. According to the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) more than 3,000 cases of Hepatitis A have been reported in Florida this year.
“We’re trying to make sure the public is aware of the outbreak nationwide and here in Florida, as well as what they can do to protect themselves,” said FDOH spokesman Steve Huard.
Department of Health officials report an employee at the Beef ‘O’ Brady’s on 1037 Sumter Blvd in North Port tested positive for the virus. They’re asking for anyone who ate or drank at the restaurant between December 7th through December 20th to get vaccinated.
Hep A is a virus found in the feces of people who carry the virus and it targets the liver. Common symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and jaundice of the eyes or skin usually starts after 2-6 weeks after infection. Huard says prevention is key.
“That in very easy terms is get the vaccination and always do a real good job at hand washing,” he said.
Frank Comploier ate at the restaurant within that infectious time frame. He says he isn’t blaming the restaurant and glad they let their customers know of the situation.
“Yea, I’ll go back you know it’s not their fault,” said Comploier. “And maybe with all this publicity all the other restaurant will be careful so that this doesn’t happen again.”
SNN reached out to Beef ‘O’ Brady’s but they did not have a statement available for comment at the time. However Huard says eating at the restaurant is perfectly safe and the restaurant s is following all procedures to ensure the safety of their staff and customers.
“Beef ‘O’ Brady’s has been very helpful with us,” said Huard. “They’ve done everything we’ve asked of them, and have been very forthcoming with information, very helpful with our investigation. “
The FDOH in North Port on 6950 Outreach Way will be providing free vaccines Sunday from 12 to 2 p.m.