CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Patrons of a popular South-Park area restaurant have reason to be concerned. The Mecklenburg County Health Department says they may be at risk for Hepatitis A.
Over the weekend an employee of Dogwood Southern Table and Bar was confirmed to have the virus.
Health officials say the worker did not prepare food, but was responsible for polishing silverware and severing food. Monday afternoon, the Health Department offered a walk-in clinic for free vaccination.
One customer who received the vaccination, who did not want to be identified, said she was surprised by the news.
"I'm very concerned because I have small kids at home and so I worry about not just myself, but my family, and so it's unfortunate."
The Health Department said Tuesday the dates and time of concern was dinner service on the February 4 and 5, 7 through 10.
So far about 20 people have been vaccinated. The Department says it plans to hold another clinic either Tuesday or Wednesday depending on weather.
Health Department officials are encouraging a priority group of patrons who visited the restaurant on Feb. 4 and 5 to come to the Health Department for a vaccination on Wednesday, Feb. 18 from noon to 5 p.m. Immunizations will also be provided for anyone who ate at the restaurant on February 7, 8, 9 or 10 on Thursday, Feb. 19 or Friday, Feb. 20 from noon to 5 p.m. at the Health Department. The Health Department is located at 249 Billingsley Road.
Hepatitis A vaccine can be given up to two weeks after a potential exposure to help prevent possible infection. Health officials are reminding patrons that the restaurant is currently open for business and is not considered a public health threat.
