Due to an overwhelming public response a third Hepatitis A clinic has been scheduled for Friday following an infection in Somerville.
SOMERVILLE, NJ — A third Hepatitis A clinic has been added for Friday after Thursday’s clinic was forced to close early again. Both clinics on Wednesday and Thursday were forced to close early due to a continued “overwhelming public response,” Somerset County said.
The free vaccinations are being offered after a deli worker at the ShopRite in Somerville was found to be infected with hepatitis A and worked during a time when the virus could have been spread to others, health officials said.
“We understand residents are concerned,” said Freeholder Director Brian D. Levine. “The county health department has been working diligently to ensure that vaccinations are available. A third clinic will be open on Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at our human services building in Somerville.”
The clinic is being held at 27 Warren St. No appointment is necessary. Vaccinations for adults age 19 and older will be given on a first come, first serve basis while supplies last. Pediatric vaccines (for children 18 and under) will not be available at this clinic. Free parking is available in the parking deck next to the human services building. For directions click here.
The New Jersey Department of Health with the Somerset County Department of Health and Wakefern Corporation warned shoppers on Monday of the confirmed single case of hepatitis A at ShopRite at 1 S. Davenport St. in Somerville.
The food handler worked from Oct.13 to 30 when he or she was infectious, Somerset County health officials said.
The Somerset County Health Department is recommending the following:
- Any items purchased from the in-store deli (Appy) at ShopRite of Somerville from Oct. 13 to 30, should be thrown away.
- Anyone who may have eaten items purchased at the in-store deli (Appy) from the ShopRite of Somerville from Oct. 13 to 30, and was not previusly vaccinated against hepatitis A, should get the hepatitis A vaccine to prevent getting sick.
- To be effective, the hepatitis A vaccine should be received as soon as possible, but no later than two weeks after eating food from this deli. For most people, this date would be Nov. 13. (Note: Anyone with weakened immune systems should talk with their healthcare provider about getting immunoglobulin or Ig instead of the vaccine.)
- Anyone who used the restrooms at the ShopRite of Somerville from Oct. 13 to 30 should also consider getting vaccinated. The hepatitis A vaccine should be received as soon as possible, but no later than Nov. 13.
If you believe you were exposed you should also:
- Monitor your health for symptoms of hepatitis A infection including fatigue, low appetite, stomach pain, nausea and jaundice up to 50 days after exposure.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water frequently and thoroughly, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing food.
- Stay at home and contact your healthcare provider immediately if symptoms of hepatitis A infection develop.
If you have additional concerns about your health, contact your own health care provider for individualized guidance.
Source: patch