Hepatitis A case confirmed in Edmonton zone, prompts public alert

A McDonald's restaurant in Nisku, Alta. where a case of hepatitis A was confirmed on July 1, 2023. (Evan Klippenstein, CTV News Edmonton)

Alberta Health Services (AHS) has confirmed a case of hepatitis A at a Nisku McDonald's and is urging anyone who may have been exposed to get immunized.

Hepatitis A is an infection of the liver caused by a virus, and it can be contracted through direct contact with an infected person, or by ingesting contaminated food or drink.

AHS issued a public alert on Canada Day, saying a worker at the McDonald's at 301 20 Street in Nisku had tested positive for the virus.

Anyone who consumed food or drink from that location on the following dates may have been exposed:

• June 20 to 23, between 7 and 11 a.m.; and
• June 24, between 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

“While we believe the risk to the public is low, hepatitis A is a serious infection,” said Dr. Christopher Sikora, a medical officer of health for AHS. “As a precaution, anyone who consumed food or drink at this location is advised to monitor themselves and their family for symptoms."

Illness can occur 15 to 50 days after exposure, and AHS says anyone who believes they may have been exposed should watch for symptoms until mid-August.

Symptoms of hepatitis A may include:

• tiredness;
• poor appetite;
• nausea and vomiting;
• abdominal pain and fever;
• dark-coloured urine;
• light-coloured stool; and
• yellowing of the eyes and skin.

Individuals who develop symptoms between July 1, 2023 and Aug. 13, 2023 are advised to immediately contact Health Link at 1-866-301-2668.

AHS says hepatitis A can be prevented through immunization and anyone who was exposed is encouraged to book an immunization appointment by calling Health Link at 1-866-301-2668.

The McDonald's has been inspected and approved as "safe to operate," AHS said, and there is no ongoing risk of infection.