Health Authority Alerts Public to Potential Hepatitis A Exposure Linked to Sechelt Pizza Restaurant

hepatitis A Concerns Rise as Health Authority Issues Alerts for British Columbia Restaurants

Vancouver coastal Health is urging patrons of two Sunshine Coast eateries to get vaccinated following potential hepatitis A exposure. The alerts, issued on August 29, 2025, are focused on possible transmission stemming from salads served at Pepper Creek Pizza & Pasta in sechelt, and food consumed at the Sea Monkey Coffee food truck in Gibsons.

Exposure Details & Timeline

The health authority indicates that individuals who ate salads at Pepper Creek Pizza & Pasta between July 31 and August 14, and again between August 23 and 29, may have been exposed to the virus. Those who consumed cooked food at the restaurant are not considered at risk. Separately, anyone who purchased food from the Sea Monkey Coffee truck while it was stationed at the Sunday Cider bar between August 1 and 25 should also be aware.

Hepatitis A Exposure Locations:

| Location | Dates of Potential Exposure | Food Type | Risk to Cooked Food Consumers |
|———————–|——————————|——————————–|——————————|
| Pepper Creek Pizza & Pasta | July 31 – Aug 14 & Aug 23-29 | Salads | No |
| Sea Monkey Coffee Truck | August 1 – August 25 | All food items consumed | N/A |

Understanding Hepatitis A & Vaccination

Hepatitis A is a liver infection that can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, pain in the upper right abdomen, muscle aches, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). While the risk of transmission in these cases is considered low, vaccination within two weeks of potential exposure can effectively prevent illness.

Did you know? The liver performs over 500 essential functions, highlighting the importance of protecting it from diseases like hepatitis A.

Current Hepatitis Landscape

World Health Organization (WHO) data indicates that deaths from viral hepatitis-related causes are on the rise globally, and a notable number of individuals remain undiagnosed and untreated. Prevention and treatment are key, as many hepatitis infections are avoidable.Significant Reminder: Early detection and treatment can drastically impact the prognosis of liver conditions.

Monitoring for Symptoms

Individuals who consumed food from either location during the specified dates, and haven’t been vaccinated, are advised to monitor for symptoms of hepatitis A.If symptoms develop, seek medical attention promptly.

For more information: Contact Vancouver Coastal Health or your healthcare provider.

what steps should individuals who ate at or ordered from the Sechelt pizza restaurant between August 15th and 29th, 2025 take regarding potential Hepatitis A exposure?

What You Need to Know about the Hepatitis A Outbreak

On August 30, 2025, the regional health authority issued a public health alert regarding potential exposure to Hepatitis A at a pizza restaurant in Sechelt, British Columbia. This alert is crucial for anyone who has recently dined at or ordered takeout from the affected establishment. Understanding the risks, symptoms, and preventative measures is paramount.Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). According to the World Health Institution (WHO), it’s typically spread when someone ingests food or water contaminated with the feces of an infected person https://www.who.int/health-topics/hepatitis/.

Identifying Potential Exposure: Who is at Risk?

The health authority is specifically advising individuals who consumed food or beverages at the Sechelt pizza restaurant between August 15th and August 29th, 2025, to monitor for symptoms.This includes:

Diners: Anyone who ate at the restaurant during the specified dates.

Takeout Customers: Individuals who ordered takeout from the restaurant during the same period.

Close Contacts: Family members and close contacts of those who may have been exposed.

The health authority is actively investigating the source of the contamination and working with the restaurant to ensure public safety. The restaurant is cooperating fully with the examination and has temporarily closed for thorough sanitation.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically appear 15-50 days after exposure. Common symptoms include:

Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired and weak.

Nausea and Vomiting: Experiencing feelings of sickness and throwing up.

Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen.

Loss of Appetite: A decreased desire to eat.

Fever: A body temperature above normal.

Dark Urine: Urine that appears darker than usual.

Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes – a key indicator of liver inflammation.

Clay-colored stools: Pale, white-colored bowel movements.

It’s vital to note that not everyone infected with Hepatitis A will experience all of these symptoms. Some individuals,notably children,may have very mild or no symptoms at all,yet still be contagious.

What to Do If You Suspect Exposure

If you believe you may have been exposed to Hepatitis A through the Sechelt pizza restaurant, the following steps are recommended:

1. Contact your Healthcare Provider: Promptly consult your doctor or a walk-in clinic. Inform them of your potential exposure and any symptoms you are experiencing.
2. Vaccination: If you are not already vaccinated against Hepatitis A, your healthcare provider can administer the vaccine or immune globulin (IG) to provide short-term protection.The vaccine is most effective when given within two weeks of exposure.
3. Monitor Your Symptoms: Closely watch for the growth of any Hepatitis A symptoms.
4. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the restroom and before preparing or eating food.
5. Avoid Preparing Food for Others: If you develop symptoms,refrain from preparing food or drinks for others to prevent potential spread.

Hepatitis A Prevention: Protecting Yourself and Your Community

Preventing Hepatitis A involves practicing good hygiene and considering vaccination. Here are some key preventative measures:

Vaccination: The Hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective and recommended for travelers to areas with high rates of Hepatitis A,individuals with chronic liver disease,and those at increased risk of infection.

Handwashing: Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water after using the restroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food.

Safe Food Handling: Cook food thoroughly, especially shellfish. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked seafood.

Safe Water Consumption: Drink water from a safe source. If you are unsure of the water quality, boil it or use a water filter.

Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share eating utensils,drinking glasses,or toothbrushes with others.

Understanding Hepatitis A Transmission & Severity

Hepatitis A is typically a self-limiting illness, meaning most people recover fully without long-term liver damage. However, in rare cases, it can lead to acute liver failure, particularly in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions.The virus is shed in the stool of infected individuals, making proper hygiene crucial to prevent its spread.

Real-World Example: Past Foodborne Hepatitis A Outbreaks

Foodborne outbreaks of hepatitis A, while relatively uncommon with widespread vaccination, have occurred in the past. In 2017-2018, a multi-state outbreak linked to frozen strawberries sickened over 150 people in the United States and Canada. This outbreak highlighted the importance of tracing the source of contamination and implementing robust food safety measures. These events underscore the need for vigilance and prompt public health response.

Resources for Further data

* World Health Organization (WHO):