The Oakland County Health Department is currently investigating a suspected case of hepatitis A that was reported at the Ivy Lounge at Pine Knob Music Theater. It has been determined that all season members, guests, and staff who consumed meals at the lounge during the season may have been exposed. People who were present should monitor their symptoms between August 28th and September 8th. Unvaccinated individuals who may have been infected between September 1st and 8th are urged to get vaccinated within 14 days to meet the deadline.
Hepatitis A is a liver infection that is typically spread from person to person through contaminated hands. The symptoms include sudden abdominal pain, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, headache, dark urine, vomiting, and yellowing of the skin and eyes. In order to provide a breakdown of possible exposure dates, the following concerts are listed: Lynyrd Skynyrd Concert on August 26th, Arctic Monkeys Concert on August 29th, and the Foreign Concert on September 30th. Concerts on September 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 8th are also mentioned.
Dr. Russell Faust, the Medical Director of Oakland County, expressed that the risk of infection in this particular situation is low. However, he emphasized the importance of vaccination within 14 days of exposure, as it can provide protection against the disease. To reduce the risk of contracting hepatitis A, health officials recommend following certain steps: frequent handwashing, cleaning and disinfecting of surface areas, refraining from meal preparation while experiencing symptoms, and getting the hepatitis A vaccine.
The hepatitis A vaccine is available through healthcare providers, health department offices, and many pharmacies. It is advised to call ahead and check vaccine availability with the respective provider or pharmacy. The health department has scheduled two special hepatitis A vaccine clinics at the North Oakland Health Center on September 16th and 17th. Additionally, a nurse will be on call during specific hours to address any concerns or questions. The on-call nurse can be contacted at 800-848-5533 or noc@oakgov.com.