The FDA has found a source for the Hepatitis A outbreak that's led to five cases and two hospitalizations. It's linked to organic frozen strawberries from Baja, Mexico. These organic frozen strawberries have been sold at Costco in California and Hawaii, Trader Joe's nationwide, and other grocery retailers across the US.
Know What to Look For:
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious, short-term liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, which has been found in this batch of strawberries. Hep A symptoms include yellowing of the eyes and/or skin, dark cola-colored urine, light-colored stool, nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, joint pain, and fatigue.
What to Do if You've Been Exposed:
A single shot of the hepatitis A vaccine can help prevent hepatitis A if given within 2 weeks of exposure. Depending upon your age and health, your doctor may recommend immune globulin in addition to the hepatitis A vaccine. Call your doctor if you think you've eaten the contaminated strawberries.
How It Spreads:
Hepatitis A can be spread from close, personal contact with an infected person, such as through certain types of sexual contact (like oral-anal sex), caring for someone who is ill, or using drugs with others. Hepatitis A is very contagious, and people can even spread the virus before they feel sick. If someone has been exposed to or has symptoms of Hep A, it's important that they stay home, call their healthcare provider, and your workplace takes action to prevent the spread. Call Zero Hour Health for support if you have an employee with confirmed or possible Hep A.
Read the full list of recalled products at the FDA's website: https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-hepatitis-virus-infections-frozen-strawberries-february-2023