Did you grab a bite from a food truck in Gibsons, B.C., this month? Vancouver Coastal Health has issued an important advisory regarding potential hepatitis A exposure. Find out if you could be affected and what steps to take. Your health is paramount, so stay informed!

Vancouver Coastal Health has issued a critical public health warning following a potential hepatitis A exposure incident in Gibsons, British Columbia. This urgent alert pertains specifically to individuals who consumed food from a popular local establishment, prompting a swift response from health authorities to mitigate any widespread risk.

The specific focus of this advisory is the Sea Monkey Coffee food truck, which operated at Sunday Cider on the Sunshine Coast Highway. Patrons who ate from this particular food truck between August 1st and August 25th are now advised to monitor their health diligently for potential symptoms of hepatitis A, a viral liver infection.

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. It typically spreads through the consumption of contaminated food or water, or through close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include fever, fatigue, dark urine, jaundice, and abdominal discomfort.

It is crucial to emphasize that this exposure notification is precisely targeted. Vancouver Coastal Health has clarified that the warning exclusively applies to those who consumed food items from the Sea Monkey Coffee truck. Individuals who merely visited other businesses at the Sunday Cider location, or only had beverages, are not considered to be at risk from this specific exposure.

A key preventive measure against this viral infection is vaccination. Public health officials are strongly advocating for vaccination as an effective means to prevent the onset of hepatitis A, especially for those who may have been exposed. The vaccine can provide significant protection if administered promptly after exposure.

In light of this **hepatitis A outbreak** concern, Vancouver Coastal Health is recommending that anyone who consumed food from the **Sea Monkey Coffee** truck between August 14th and August 25th should obtain a dose of the hepatitis A vaccine as quickly as possible. This window is considered critical for post-exposure prophylaxis.

This **public health warning** underscores the importance of stringent **food safety** practices for all food service operations in **Gibsons B.C.** Health authorities are actively working to ensure the well-being of the community and prevent further spread of the virus. Individuals with concerns or questions are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or local public health unit for guidance and testing.