Vancouver Coastal Health warns salad diners at a Sechelt restaurant of possible hepatitis A exposure, urging vaccination within two weeks.
Health warning issued in Sechelt
Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) has issued a public warning after possible hepatitis A exposure was identified at Pepper Creek Pizza & Pasta, a restaurant located along the Sunshine Coast Highway in Sechelt, B.C.
Timeframe of potential exposure
Health officials say only customers who ate salads at the restaurant between July 31 and August 14, and again between August 23 and 29, may be at risk. Those who consumed cooked dishes are not affected.
Why vaccination is urged
The health authority is advising exposed diners to get a hepatitis A vaccine as soon as possible. The vaccine is most effective when administered within two weeks of potential exposure, reducing the likelihood of infection.
Connection to earlier advisory
This latest alert comes just one day after VCH issued a similar notice for the Sea Monkey Coffee food truck in Gibsons, which operated at the Sunday Cider bar between August 1 and 25. Officials emphasize that while the risk of transmission remains low, precautionary vaccination is strongly encouraged.
Symptoms to watch for
Residents are urged to monitor for signs of hepatitis A, which can include fatigue, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, muscle soreness, and jaundice — a yellowing of the skin or eyes. Anyone showing symptoms should seek medical care promptly.
Public health response
VCH continues to monitor both sites and is working with operators to ensure food safety measures are in place. The authority stressed that while the risk is not widespread, timely awareness and vaccination are key to preventing further cases.
For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.
