According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, patrons at Azay Restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, California, may have been exposed to the virus through a hepatitis A infection. The restaurant is located at 226 East First Street in Los Angeles. No further cases have been identified to date.

The person worked between July 26 and July 30, 2024, while infectious. Anyone who ate there between July 29 and July 30, 2024, should get vaccinated against hepatitis A. The vaccine is most effective when given within two weeks of exposure. If you have any questions, ask your doctor. Local pharmacies usually offer this vaccine.

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver disease caused by a virus. Depending on the patient’s health, the disease can be mild or severe. It is transmitted through contaminated food and drinks, through person-to-person contact and through contact with contaminated surfaces (fomites).

If you are not eligible for vaccination, you will need to monitor your health for the next 50 days for symptoms of hepatitis A infection. Symptoms include fatigue, sudden nausea and vomiting, and abdominal pain, especially in the upper right quadrant. Other symptoms include clay-colored stools, severe itching, dark urine, mild fever, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and joint pain. The main symptom of hepatitis A is yellowing of the skin and eyes, called jaundice. These symptoms can appear within 15 to 50 days of exposure to the virus.

Besides getting vaccinated, the best way to prevent the spread of this disease is to stay home when you are sick, especially if you have diarrhea. And contact your doctor if you have symptoms of hepatitis A.