Urgent Health Warning in Bridgewater

Nova Scotia Health is sounding the alarm after a confirmed case of hepatitis A in the Bridgewater area. If you dined or drank at Sushi Bay Japanese Cuisine on LaHave Street between March 8 and March 28, you need to pay attention!

What You Need to Know

Authorities are urging anyone who visited this sushi restaurant during the specified dates to be on the lookout for symptoms of hepatitis A. If you start feeling unwell in the coming weeks, reach out to your healthcare provider or local Public Health office immediately. For those experiencing severe symptoms, swift medical attention is crucial.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Symptoms of hepatitis A include: - A sudden fever - Loss of appetite - Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain - Dark urine and yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) appear within days or a week.

Risk Level and Precautions

Nova Scotia Health has assessed the overall risk to the public as low but acknowledges that some individuals may have been exposed. The health authority is actively reaching out to those at higher risk and will provide vaccinations to help prevent illness.

No Ongoing Threat at Sushi Bay

Good news: There’s currently no ongoing transmission of the virus at Sushi Bay, thanks to the restaurant's management cooperating closely with health officials to inform customers.

Understanding Hepatitis A

Typically, hepatitis A causes illness lasting one to two weeks, but some cases can linger for months. While most individuals recover without any special treatment, the virus can lead to severe liver complications in certain situations.

Prevention is Key!

To minimize the risk of contracting hepatitis A, remember these vital tips: - Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently with soap and warm water, especially before meals and food preparation. - Get vaccinated if you're at higher risk for exposure.