Since the end of April, 30 cases of Hepatitis A have been reported in 5 states ( Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, California, Arizona) according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Individuals became ill after consuming ‘Townsend Farms Organic Anti-Oxidant Blend,’ a frozen berry and pomegranate seed mix purchased at Costco. The CDC recommends discarding all uneaten product should be discarded even if it has been partially consumed. For individuals who have consumed the product in the past 14 days, contact your primary care provider or your counties health department to discuss prevention options including receiving the Hepatitis A vaccination or immunoglobulin. For individuals who have already been vaccinated against Hepatitis A, no further actions are advised at this time. If an individual develop symptoms after consuming the Townsend Farms Organic Anti-Oxidant Blend include yellowing of the eyes or skin, darkening of the urine, abdominal pain and pale stools, the CDC is encouraging individuals to contact their primary care provider promptly.
Currently there have been no reported outbreaks of Hepatitis A in Southern Oregon. To help prevent the spread of food borne illness here are 3 simple techniques:
1. Wash your hands with soap and water after using the restroom or changing a diaper.
2. Wash your hands before preparing, serving or consuming food.
3. Regularly disinfect utensils, cutting boards and counters after use.