World News

Tuna Possibly Contaminated with Hepatitis A Sold in Texas Stores

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Tony Maples Photography

 

A sample of frozen tuna from the Hilo Fish Company tested positive for Hepatitis A on May 18th. Now, the FDA is warning consumers Texans that certain stores/restaurants might have sold fish contaminated with the virus to customers.

Chron.com lists the following as possible places where the tuna could have been purchased:

  • Central Market Kitchen – HEB Vendor #15385, Austin
  • Conservatory Plano – 6401 Ohio Dr., Plano
  • Hilton Garden Inn – 23535 Northgate Crossing, Spring
  • Jack Ryan’s – 102 N. College Ave., Tyler
  • Jack Ryan’s – 119 N. Longview St., Kilgore
  • Johnny Tamale – 4647 E. Sam Houston, Pasadena
  • Myron’s Prime Steakhouse – 10003 NW Military Hwy, San Antonio
  • Prestonwood CC – 15909 Preston Rd., Dallas
  • Sea Ranch Restaurant – 1 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island
  • Sysco East Texas – 4577 Estes Pkwy, Longview
  • Sysco Food Houston – 10710 Greens Crossing Blvd., Houston
  • The Schooner – 1507 S. Why 69, Nederland

According to the Mayo Clinic, Hepatitis A is a “highly contagious” virus that leads to liver infection. It takes a few weeks to develop symptoms like jaundice, vomiting, fatigue and abdominal pain, though some people will show no symptoms. If the patient already has liver issues, Hepatitis A could throw them into liver failure, but for the most part, cases will not lead to permanent damage. “If you have hepatitis A, you may have a mild illness that lasts a few weeks or a severe illness that lasts several months,” the Mayo Clinic explains.

Texans who were exposed to the contaminated tuna can get a vaccine within two weeks of exposure to help with the severity of the illness. Those who ate uncooked tuna from any of the above locations should contact their doctor ASAP. If cooked fish was consumed, the risk is lower, but the FDA says to still call one’s doctor.