In a recent announcement, the Gloucester County Health Department has advised individuals who dined at the Olive Garden restaurant in Deptford, New Jersey to consider getting vaccinated for Hepatitis A. The recommendation comes after a food handler at the establishment tested positive for the viral illness.

According to county health officials, the infected employee last worked at the Olive Garden located at 1500 Almonesson Road between December 26 and December 30, 2022. Symptoms of Hepatitis A include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, poor appetite, dark urine, and jaundice, with an incubation period of two to seven weeks after exposure.

Unvaccinated individuals who believe they may have been exposed are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider and consider getting vaccinated within two weeks of exposure to lower the potential risk. Those who have previously received the Hepatitis A vaccine are not at significant risk of serious illness.

To address any potential risks, the Gloucester County Health Department is offering vaccines to any unvaccinated Olive Garden employees who may have been exposed. The restaurant itself has been rated "Satisfactory" by health inspectors during a previous inspection in March and passed a re-inspection on Wednesday.

In a statement, Olive Garden, Deptford Township assured their customers that the infected employee will not be allowed to return to work until being officially released by a doctor. The restaurant emphasized their commitment to the health and safety of both their guests and team members, and their efforts to work closely with the health department to implement appropriate protocols.

As of now, there have been no reports of other team members or guests falling ill. Olive Garden expressed their dedication to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and safety within their establishments.

Individuals who believe they may have been exposed to Hepatitis A are advised to monitor their symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary. The Gloucester County Health Department continues to collaborate with Olive Garden to ensure all necessary measures are in place to protect the health of their patrons and employees.

If you dined at the Olive Garden in Deptford between December 26 and December 30, 2022, and have concerns about your potential exposure, it is recommended to seek medical advice and consider getting vaccinated if you are unvaccinated.

For any further information or inquiries about restaurant closures in New Jersey during 2023, individuals may contact reporter Dan Alexander at Dan.Alexander@townsquaremedia.com.