Multistate outbreak of Hepatitis A infections potentially associated with “Townsend Farms Organic Antioxidant Blend” frozen berry and pomegranate mix

From Center for Disease Control June 7, 2013

CDC is collaborating with public health officials in several states and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate a multistate outbreak of Hepatitis A illnesses. Preliminary results from the ongoing investigation are highlighted below.

As of June 7, 2013, 79 people with acute hepatitis A infections that may be linked with consumption of a contaminated product have been reported by eight states: Arizona, California Colorado, Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Washington. These numbers are expected to change as the investigation continues.

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CDPH Warns Not To Eat Townsend Farms Organic Antioxidant Blend Frozen Berries 

News Release from California Department of Public Health May 31, 2013

Product Has Possible Link to Hepatitis A

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) today warned consumers not to eat Townsend Farms Organic Antioxidant Blend of frozen berries sold through Costco stores as they may be linked to a multistate outbreak of hepatitis A infections. (Three confirmed Hawaii cases, see below.)

To date, at least 30 cases are being investigated nationwide. In California, six confirmed illnesses in persons who consumed this product have been reported from Humboldt, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino (2), and San Diego counties. Three of these individuals have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.

“People who have bought this product should discard it if still found in their home,” said Dr. Ron Chapman, CDPH Director and State Health Officer. “Anyone who has consumed this specific product in the last 14 days should contact their doctor to discuss possible hepatitis A prevention and treatment options.”

Costco has removed this product from stores and is notifying their member customers who have bought this product. CDPH will continue to work with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration on this outbreak.

Symptoms of hepatitis A virus infection include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, clay-colored bowel movements, joint pain and jaundice (a yellowing of the skin or eyes). Symptoms develop two to six weeks after consuming contaminated food or drink and can last from one week to several months.

Most people recover completely, but sometimes hepatitis A can lead to hospitalization and severe illness. It is very important that if you have symptoms like this you do not go to work, especially if you work in food service, health care or child care. For more details see the CDPH fact sheet.

People who develop symptoms of hepatitis should consult their health care provider. For more information on hepatitis A, please visit this site.

PBN: Costco frozen berries recalled in Hawaii after three infected with hepatitis A

All three cases report having consumed the product prior to contracting the disease, according to the Hawaii State Department of Health, which is investigating the three cases of infection. The residents, two on Oahu and one on Kauai, are either recovering or have recovered, officials said....

For a list of pharmacies in Hawaii that provide hepatitis A vaccine, go here.

US CDC: Multistate outbreak of Hepatitis A potentially associated with a frozen berry blend food product

LINK: Hepatitis Free Hawaii

KHON: Department of Health investigating two possible cases of Hepatitis A due to recalled berry blend

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