Nova Scotia Health, in Nova Scotia, Canada, has issued a public health alert following the confirmation of a hepatitis A case in the province, according to a story in Now Toronto. An investigation by the agency has traced the source to a Tim Hortons in the city of Amherst, with potential exposure dates between May 30 and June 14.
While officials emphasize that the risk to the public is low, they are urging vigilance. Individuals who dined at the identified Tim Hortons during the specified period are advised to monitor their health closely. Those experiencing symptoms since June 15 or within the next four weeks should consult their healthcare provider promptly.
Hepatitis A typically presents with mild symptoms, including sudden fever, loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. In some cases, patients may develop darker urine and jaundice. While the illness usually resolves within weeks without treatment, it can occasionally persist and cause severe liver damage.
The virus spreads through fecal-oral transmission, often via contaminated food or water. Prevention strategies include thorough handwashing, especially after using the bathroom and before handling food. Vaccination is also an effective preventive measure.
To curb the spread, Nova Scotia Health is administering vaccines to high-risk individuals, who have been contacted directly. The Tim Hortons management has been described as “extremely cooperative and supportive” throughout the investigation.
Online reactions to the incident and response varied. Some social media users have called for the closure of the affected Tim Hortons, while others used the opportunity to advocate for wider hepatitis A and B vaccinations. On Reddit, discussions ranged from criticism of Tim Hortons’ hygiene standards across Nova Scotia to more lighthearted comments.
This isn’t the first public health incident involving Tim Hortons. In September 2023, a location at the University of Waterloo temporarily closed after a rat was seen in the kitchen.
Commenting on this story, one national food safety attorney said, “Fortunately, while hepatitis A can cause significant discomfort, it does not lead to chronic infections like hepatitis B or C. However, this incident stresses the importance of strong food safety practices and personal hygiene in preventing the spread of communicable diseases.”
