Vancouver Coastal Health officials have issued an urgent public health advisory after confirming a case of hepatitis A linked to food served at a popular mobile eatery in Gibsons, British Columbia. The health authority is warning that anyone who consumed food from the “Creek Side Chip Wagon” food truck between October 8 and October 20 may have been exposed to the virus.
“We’re taking this situation very seriously,” said Dr. Meena Dawar, Medical Health Officer at Vancouver Coastal Health. “Hepatitis A is highly contagious, and early intervention is crucial to prevent further transmission in the community.”
The health authority has launched a rapid response protocol, offering free vaccination to individuals who consumed food from the establishment during the specified timeframe. Public health experts emphasize that vaccination can be effective when administered within 14 days of exposure, making immediate action essential for those potentially affected.
Hepatitis A, a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, spreads primarily through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated food or water. Early symptoms typically appear 15-50 days after exposure and may include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and jaundice—a yellowing of the skin or eyes.
“What makes hepatitis A particularly concerning is that infected individuals can transmit the virus before developing symptoms,” explained infectious disease specialist Dr. Robert Chen. “This underscores the importance of preventive vaccination for those who may have been exposed.”
The Creek Side Chip Wagon has voluntarily closed during the investigation and is cooperating fully with health authorities. The owner, who requested anonymity, expressed profound concern for customers’ wellbeing: “We’re devastated by this situation and are working closely with health officials to ensure all safety protocols are followed. Our customers’ health is our absolute priority.”
Health officials have established a dedicated vaccination clinic at the Gibsons Health Unit until November 3. Those unable to attend can contact Vancouver Coastal Health for alternative arrangements.
This incident comes amid rising hepatitis A cases across Canada, with national health agencies reporting a 17% increase in infections over the past year. Public health experts attribute this trend partly to increased travel and changes in food distribution systems.
The Canadian Public Health Agency recommends preventive vaccination for individuals at higher risk, including travelers to certain countries, men who have sex with men, and people with chronic liver conditions.
As investigations continue, this outbreak raises important questions about food safety protocols for mobile food vendors. How might our approach to regulating and monitoring these increasingly popular dining options need to evolve to better protect public health?
