Hep A confirmed in Monroe Olga's Kitchen worker

The Monroe County Health Department said Wednesday it has confirmed a case of hepatitis A in a food handler at an Olga’s Kitchen restaurant in Monroe. 

They are advising patrons who ate at the location at 2072 North Telegraph between Feb. 24 and Wednesday to watch for symptoms of hepatitis A.

"Based on this potential exposure, MCHD is recommending vaccination with Hepatitis A vaccine or treatment with immune globulin (IG) for individuals who can’t receive the vaccine," the health department said. "The most effective method to prevent Hepatitis A is to get vaccinated."

The health department said it was working with the restaurant to vaccinate employees and eliminate additional risk of exposure. The individual is no longer working and is receiving medical treatment. 

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver disease caused by a virus. The disease can range from a mild illness to a severe sickness that can last several months. Symptoms can appear similar to the flu, cause eyes and skin to turn yellow and urine dark.

A person can get the virus by eating contaminated food, drinking contaminated water, sexual contact with someone infected or living with an infected person. 

Since Aug. 1, 2016, Michigan has reported 692 confirmed cases of hepatitis A, including 22 fatalities, in Detroit as well as Huron, Ingham, Lapeer, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Sanilac, St. Clair, Washtenaw and Wayne counties.

srahal@detroitnews.com