Food Safety, the House newsletter for the Marler Clark Law Firm documented a recent outbreak of hepatitis A attributed to three Famous Antony’s Restaurants in Roanoke, VA.  During August 2021, over 50 diagnosed cases with 30 hospitalizations and four fatalities were directly linked to the establishments.  Epidemiologic investigations showed that a single cook who circulated among the restaurants in the chain was responsible for contamination of food, possibly due to improper hand washing or glove use.

As a result of claims against the restaurant and erosion of image and customer loyalty, it is understood that the family-owned enterprise has filed for bankruptcy with respect to two locations to allow reorganization.

Hepatitis A, a severe viral disease transmitted by the fecal-oral route, is especially prevalent among the homeless and those using drugs. Studies have demonstrated that recently outbreaks are associated with more severe clinical outcomes. About half of diagnosed patients require hospitalization and a proportion are admitted to intensive care.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has recommended routine vaccination of restaurant and kitchen workers as an effective measure to prevent hepatitis A. Unfortunately, food handlers are most infectious before developing clinical signs and effectively are most likely to transmit virus to co-workers and patrons of restaurants.