Cortland County Health Department Warns of Possible Hepatitis A Exposure at Queen Subs – Risk is Low and Vaccines Are Available

The Cortland County Health Department is reporting a new case of hepatitis A virus infection of a restaurant worker. The Health Department says they were notified that a food handler who works at Queen Subs at the corner of Port Watson and Church Street in Cortland, has been diagnosed with the virus.

The Health Department says the risk of patrons of Queen Subs is low, but as a precaution, the Health Department will offer hepatitis A vaccines to those who were potentially exposed. The vaccine is effective against hepatitis A if it is given within two weeks of exposure.

“The owner and staff at the restaurant are complying with all recommendations from the state and local health departments. If you purchased food/drink at Queen Subs after 7/4/24 there is no currently identified risk for hepatitis A exposure.”

The Health Department said in a release

The Cortland County Health Department has listed dates of if you consumed food or drink at Queen Subs on when you should get vaccinated against hepatitis A.

• Friday, June 28th – You should receive the hepatitis A vaccine by Friday, July 12th
• Tuesday, July 2nd – You should receive the hepatitis A vaccine by Tuesday, July 16th
• Wednesday, July 3rd – You should receive the hepatitis A vaccine by Wednesday, July 17th

The Health Department says between 6/20 and 6/27, you are already past the window to receive the hepatitis A vaccine and should monitor yourself for symptoms.

If you’re already vaccinated against hepatitis A, you are already fully protected against and no further action is needed.

Hepatitis Symptoms include: Yellow skin or eyes, lack of appetite, upset stomach, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, dark urine or light colored stools, joint pain, and fatigue.

“Hepatitis A is transmitted by consuming food or drinks or by using utensils that have been handled by an infected person. It may also be spread from person to person by ingesting something that has been contaminated by the infected person. Casual contact, such as sitting together, does not spread the virus.”

The Health Department stated in a release.

The free hepatitis A vaccination may be obtained at the Cortland County Health Department hepatitis A Vaccination Clinic at the County Office Building, Room 107 on Friday, July 12th from 1 to 4pm, and Tuesday, July 16th from 10am to 1pm.

You can register via phone at 607-345-1184 between the hours of 8:30am and 4:00pm.

People who get hepatitis A may feel sick for a few weeks to several months but usually recover
completely and do not have lasting liver damage.