Health Alert: Hepatitis A Exposure Linked to Boulder’s Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
There is an urgent health warning in Colorado regarding potential exposure to Hepatitis A at the Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant located in Boulder. Boulder County Public Health has reported that fresh juice served in particular drinks was contaminated on two separate occasions during the New Year period.
Key Details of the Contamination
The contamination occurred at the Rio Grande restaurant on the 1100 block of Walnut Street. Individuals who consumed any of the following beverages on December 30 or January 5 should take specific health precautions:
- Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice
- Mimosa with Fresh Squeezed OJ
- Michelada made with Fresh Lime Juice
- Mimosarita with Fresh Squeezed OJ
- Big Tex Margarita containing Fresh Lemon and Lime Juice
- Barrel-Aged Big Tex Margarita with Fresh Lemon and Lime Juice
- Special Reserve Coin Margarita with Fresh Lime Juice
- Silver Coin Margarita with Fresh Lime Juice
- Fresh Jalapeño Margarita containing Fresh Lime Juice
- Skinny Margarita with Fresh Lime Juice
- Kendall’s Skinny Margarita with Fresh Lime Juice
- Agave Martini made with Fresh Lemon and Lime Juice
- Mezcal Margarita featuring Fresh Lemon and Lime Juice
Recommendations for Affected Patrons
Those who consumed any of the drinks on December 30 should monitor themselves for symptoms over the next month, as "too much time has passed for a vaccine to prevent disease from possible exposure," warns Boulder County Public Health. However, patrons who had drinks on January 5 and are not up-to-date with their Hepatitis A vaccinations are advised to get vaccinated before January 19.
Understanding Hepatitis A
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines Hepatitis A as a liver disease caused by the Hepatitis A virus, typically resulting in short-term illness with mild symptoms. The virus spreads from person to person and through contaminated food or beverages. The source of the recent contamination has been traced back to an employee at the Rio Grande restaurant.
Free Vaccination Information
Boulder County Public Health is offering free Hepatitis A vaccinations for individuals who believe they may have consumed the affected drinks on January 5, provided they are not up-to-date on their immunizations. Vaccine clinics will be held at the Sundquist building located at 3482 Broadway during the following hours:
- Wednesday, January 15: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Thursday, January 16: 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Friday, January 17: 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Additional Resources and Vaccination Clinics
For those seeking more information about the outbreak, Boulder County Public Health provides various resources:
- Vaccination Information: Local public health agencies may offer Hepatitis A vaccines related to this event. Individuals with private insurance are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider for vaccination options.
- University Resources: Students from the University of Colorado can access medical services at the Wardenburg Health Center.
- Check Vaccination Status: Residents of Colorado can verify their vaccination status via Colorado’s Public Portal.
For further details, you can reach the Colorado Health Emergency Line at 1-877-462-2911 or 303-398-1687.
Useful Links:
- For information on Hepatitis A, check the CDC’s official page.
- Explore vaccination clinics available in Boulder County at Boulder County Public Health immunization clinics.
- For more general information and health services, visit University of Colorado’s Wardenburg Health Center.
In summary, if you think you may have consumed contaminated beverages at the Rio Grande restaurant, it’s crucial to follow the guidelines and seek vaccination when necessary to protect your health. Stay informed and prioritize your wellbeing.
