Health officials in Los Angeles County are investigating a case of hepatitis A in an employee at a Whole Foods supermarket in Beverly Hills. They are urging anyone who shopped at the seafood counter at the market between April 20 and May 13 to get a hepatitis A vaccine if they are not already immune to the virus. The Department of Public Health stated that getting vaccinated promptly after exposure can help reduce the risk of infection.
Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection that can cause mild to severe illness. It spreads when the virus is ingested from contaminated objects, food, or drinks. The health department is working with Whole Foods to ensure that employees who are not immune to hepatitis A receive the necessary vaccination.
While no additional cases have been reported, officials warn that the virus is currently spreading among the homeless population in Los Angeles. Whole Foods has stated that the infected employee is no longer working and that they are unaware of anyone else falling ill. They are cooperating with health department guidelines to ensure the safety of their customers.
Vocabulary List:
- Investigating (verb): To carry out a systematic inquiry or examination.
- Contagious (adjective): Capable of being transmitted from one person to another through direct or indirect contact.
- Ingested (verb): To take into the body by swallowing or absorbing.
- Unaware (adjective): Not knowing or conscious of something.
- Cooperating (verb): Working together towards a common end or purpose.
- Vaccination (noun): The administration of a vaccine to stimulate the immune system against diseases.
