FRANKFORT, Ky. (LEX 18) – Days after two deaths from the virus were announced, a new case of hepatitis A has been diagnosed in a Frankfort food worker, the Franklin County Health Department reports.
The infected individual worked at the KFC located on at 1229 US 127 between Oct. 22 and Oct. 25.
The health department wants to remind the public that it’s rare for restaurant patrons to become infected with hepatitis A virus due to an infected food handler. However, for anyone who consumed food or drink at that KFC location during that time should receive a vaccination by Nov. 8.
Vaccinations are being administered at the Franklin County Health Department located at 100
Glenns Creek Road on the following dates and times:
- Monday-Tuesday: 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
- Wednesday: 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.
- Thursday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Anyone who ate there during that time frame should monitor their health for symptoms up to 50 days after exposure.
Careful hand washing, including under the fingernails, with soap and water, along with vaccination of anyone at risk of infection, will prevent the spread of this disease.
Franklin County Health Department Director, Judy Mattingly, stated,
“The risk of transmission from this food service worker remains low due to hand hygiene requirements at KFC and all eating establishments. However, hepatitis A vaccination is highly recommended, especially for anyone who uses illegal drugs, experiences homelessness or is often in contact with those who use drugs or are homeless. Please contact the Franklin County Health Department at 502-564- 7647 to receive your hepatitis A vaccine. Hepatitis A vaccine is also available by contacting your pharmacy or medical provider.”
