Brooksville, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Hernando County (DOH-Hernando) has identified a positive case of hepatitis A in a food service worker at the Silverthorn Country Club Restaurant in Spring Hill, FL. The employee may have exposed patrons between April 12 – 30, 2019.
Hepatitis A vaccine or immune globulin (IG) may provide protection against the disease if given within two weeks after exposure. Therefore, Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for anyone who ate or drank between April 17 – 30 at the restaurant, which is located at 4550 Golf Club Lane. Concerned Silverthorn customers can call DOH-Hernando at 352-247-6111 to leave their information and a call-back number to speak directly with a nurse.
DOH-Hernando is also offering the hepatitis A vaccine for free at the Spring Hill location of the Health Department with extended hours May 1 – 3 and May 6 – 8 until 7 p.m
A person who consumed any food or beverage from this restaurant from April 12 – 16 may have also been exposed to the hepatitis A virus. 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.
Hernando County has seen a significant increase in hepatitis A cases. In 2019, the number of cases of locally identified hepatitis A infections in Hernando County is 39, compared to 6 cases in 2018, and 2 cases from 2014-2016.
Health Department 7551 Forest Oaks Blvd. Spring Hill, FL 34606 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 352-540-6800
