Health officials said a food handler at two restaurants in Newport News recently was diagnosed with Hepatitis A.

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — The Peninsula Health District issued an alert about potential Hepatitis A exposure at restaurants in Newport News.

Officials said a food handler at the Kebab House at 980 J Clyde Morris Blvd, Newport News, and the Sunrise Pizzeria located at 10158 Jefferson Ave, Newport News was recently diagnosed with Hepatitis A.

As a result, the Peninsula Health District said anyone who had any food or drinks from the Kebab House from August 2 through August 13, 2019, or the Sunrise Pizzeria from August 6 through August 10, 2019, may have been exposed to the virus.

"If you get Hepatitis A, it's you know, recovery is very likely but it’s a very unpleasant disease to have," said Richard Williamson with the Virginia Health Department.

Both restaurants have been cooperating fully with the Peninsula Health District in identifying and mitigating any risk. There is no indication of any food products at these restaurants being the source of the infection.

Hepatitis A is a virus that causes inflammation of the liver. It can be spread by direct contact with another person who has the infection, by consuming contaminated food or drink, or by touching surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus.

The classic symptom of Hepatitis A is a yellowing of the skin or the eyes called jaundice. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and light-colored stools.

The health department said symptoms develop 15-50 days after exposure to the virus. If someone is experiencing any of the symptoms of Hepatitis A, they should contact a medical provider immediately. Individuals who have not been previously vaccinated and have never had Hepatitis A infection are susceptible to the disease and may be at risk.

The Peninsula Health District said anyone who was at the restaurants may benefit from getting a vaccine to prevent Hepatitis A if received within two weeks from the date of exposure.

The Hepatitis A vaccine is available at various urgent care clinics and pharmacies. It is also available at the Peninsula Health District for free or at a reduced cost.