Employee at Asbury Park Restaurant Tests Positive for Hepatitis A, Patrons Urged to Take Precautions
By Chris Sheldon
An employee of Cardinal Provisions, a popular brunch restaurant located on Bangs Avenue in Asbury Park, has tested positive for Hepatitis A, prompting the Monmouth County Health Department to issue a cautionary statement for anyone who dined at the establishment.
According to a release from the department, an investigation revealed that the infected employee had worked at the restaurant while infectious on multiple dates, including September 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19, and 21.
Following the discovery, health department staff conducted an inspection of Cardinal Provisions and found no evidence of food safety violations. However, as a precautionary measure, the restaurant voluntarily closed its doors and remained shut until all exposed employees received the necessary vaccinations.
The county health department is now urging anyone who dined at Cardinal Provisions on any of the specified dates to consider getting a vaccination within two weeks of the last date of exposure. Patrons are also advised to closely monitor their health for symptoms of Hepatitis A infection for up to 50 days following exposure. Additionally, handwashing with soap and warm water is strongly recommended, particularly after using the bathroom and before handling food. Individuals experiencing any symptoms are encouraged to stay home and consult a doctor.
While it is uncommon for restaurant patrons to contract the Hepatitis A virus from an infected food handler, it can be transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water, as well as direct contact with an infected person.
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and can cause various symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, tiredness, fever, stomach pain, brown-colored urine, and light-colored stools. Yellowing of the skin or eyes may also occur.
It is important to note that symptoms of Hepatitis A can appear up to seven weeks after exposure to the virus.
The Monmouth County Health Department is working diligently to address the situation and ensure the safety of the community. The investigation into the source of the infection is ongoing.
For more information on Hepatitis A and updates regarding the situation at Cardinal Provisions, individuals can contact the Monmouth County Health Department.