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Thursday, March 28, 2024

Outbreak of Hepatitis A at NJ Golf Club; Nearly Two Dozen Affected

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By: Ezra Ashkenazi

Almost two dozen people contracted hepatitis A from a food handler in the exclusive Mendham Golf & Tennis club. The 23 people came into contact with the infection somewhere between June 9th and June 30th. One person remains critically ill, as the disease has taken a toll on his body. The Morris County Office of Health Management received a lab report saying that their investigation confirms that the disease was spread through a food handler. The handler is now excluded from work and can’t return until a doctor clears okays the return. A couple days later the club notified the people who were infected, that the virus spread through a worker who handles food for the club. They really tried to get this information out there to their members as soon as possible.

Larry Ragonese, spokesman for the Morris County Office of Health Management, told NJ.com, “There was no delay…As soon as the hospital notified the state and the state sent their notice through their system … that information came to Mendham Township and to their health officer.” Although the outbreak was contained only to members of the golf club, the health management offices still recommend that people make sure to vaccinate. There may be additional cases of hepatitis A until this upcoming Monday, which is the 50th day since the food handler was infectious. The incubation period for this virus is 15 to 50 days.

The state Health Department said in a statement obtained by NJ.com. that, “While individuals with hepatitis A may be quite ill, the risk of transmission is to those who had close contact to the case and patrons of the club who consumed food prepared by the ill worker.” The club remains cooperative and is trying to take all necessary actions to better this unfortunate situation.

According to the New York Post, the club manager, Joseph Kelly has taken many actions, along with his club, to “Safeguard our members, guests, and employees.” The club is still taking tips and following recommendation that are given to them from the health management office, and the New Jersey State Health Department. Joseph Kelly added that, “We are grateful for the guidance provided by both agencies and for the ongoing support of our members as we address this issue.” The disease can cause symptoms like fatigue, low appetite, and stomach pain, the best way to prevent it is vaccination.

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