The Arkansas Department of Health is warning of possible hepatitis A exposure in Jonesboro after an On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina employee tested positive for the virus.
This outbreak follows a series of warnings in northeast Arkansas, including possible exposure at ASU and a Jonesboro Salvation Army. Other warnings included a Little Ceasers in Paragould and a Flash Market/Subway in Corning.
Hep A is a contagious liver disease that can be prevented by vaccination.
ADH has advised that anyone who ate at the On the Border restaurant at 2324 Red Wolf Blvd. in Jonesboro between Dec. 13 to Dec. 27 seek vaccination immediately.
According to a press release, illness can be prevented even after exposure by getting the vaccine or medicine called immune globulin. This medicine contains antibodies to hep A and works best if given within two weeks of exposure to the virus. Hep A vaccination can still prevent the virus after exposure.
ADH will host two vaccine clinics, the first on Jan. 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Craighead County Health Unit and the second on Jan. 5 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., also at the Craighead County Health Unit.
The vaccine will be provided to the public at no cost. People should bring their insurance card and driver’s license if they have one. Those who are unable to attend the clinics listed above may be able to visit a Local Health Unit in their counties.