Beans & Barley Employee Tests Positive for Hepatitis A, Prompts Public Health Alert
The Milwaukee Health Department has launched a public health response after an employee at Beans & Barley tested positive for Hepatitis A. The employee worked at the popular restaurant between October 31 and November 13. While officials emphasize that there is no ongoing risk to current patrons, they encourage potentially exposed individuals to take precautions.
Emergency Vaccination Clinic Offered
The City of Milwaukee Health Department is providing emergency vaccinations for those who may have been exposed. The vaccination clinic will be held on Monday at 1 p.m. at the Northwest Health Center, located at 7630 W. Mill Rd.
“Hepatitis A is a vaccine-preventable disease, and vaccination is the best protection against it,” said Milwaukee Commissioner of Health Mike Totoraitis. “While the risk with this situation is low, we are still taking this situation seriously.”
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
Anyone who dined at Beans & Barley during the exposure period is urged to seek vaccination within 14 days of their visit if they haven’t already received the two-dose Hepatitis A vaccine. Vaccinations are also available at local pharmacies, through primary care providers, and at walk-in immunization clinics.
About Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by a virus that spreads through person-to-person contact or by consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms, which typically appear two to seven weeks after exposure, may include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
To prevent the spread of Hepatitis A, health officials recommend:
- Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom or before preparing food.
- Avoiding close personal contact with infected individuals if unvaccinated.
Beans & Barley Cooperation
The infected employee has cooperated fully with health officials and is not currently working at the restaurant. Beans & Barley remains open, and the health department has determined there is no ongoing risk to patrons.
Further Information
For additional details, visit the Milwaukee Health Department website or call 414-286-6800. More information about Hepatitis A can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website.
Milwaukee officials urge the public to remain vigilant but stress that this situation is manageable with timely vaccinations and proper hygiene practices.
