In an urgent public health announcement Wednesday, Vancouver Coastal Health officials warned that patrons of a popular Sechelt pizza restaurant may have been exposed to hepatitis A, triggering concerns throughout the Sunshine Coast community.
The health authority identified The Lighthouse Pub & Restaurant at 5764 Wharf Ave. as the site of potential exposure between July 10 and July 29. Officials are advising anyone who consumed food from the establishment during this period to monitor for symptoms and consider preventative vaccination.
“Time is of the essence in these situations,” said Dr. Emily Hargrove, medical health officer with Vancouver Coastal Health. “The hepatitis A vaccine can prevent infection if administered within 14 days of exposure, which is why we’re urging anyone potentially affected to seek medical attention promptly.”
Hepatitis A, a highly contagious liver infection, spreads through contaminated food and water or direct contact with an infected individual. The virus can cause symptoms including fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark urine, and jaundice—though some infected individuals, particularly children, may exhibit no symptoms at all.
Vancouver Coastal Health has initiated a comprehensive response, setting up special vaccination clinics in Sechelt for those potentially exposed. The clinics will operate at Sechelt Hospital’s community health centre on August 8 and 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and eligible individuals are encouraged to attend without appointments.
Restaurant management has fully cooperated with health authorities, temporarily closing for thorough sanitization and staff screening. The infected food handler has been removed from duty until cleared to return by medical professionals.
“We take this situation extremely seriously and are working closely with health officials to ensure public safety,” said James Morrison, owner of The Lighthouse Pub & Restaurant. “Our establishment has undergone extensive disinfection procedures, and all staff members are being tested as a precautionary measure.”
Public health experts emphasize that hepatitis A outbreaks, while concerning, can be effectively contained through prompt vaccination and proper hygiene practices. The virus has an incubation period of 15 to 50 days, meaning symptoms may not appear immediately following exposure.
Dr. Hargrove noted that individuals with pre-existing liver conditions, compromised immune systems, or those over 60 years of age face elevated risks from hepatitis A infection and should be particularly vigilant.
This incident underscores the critical importance of food safety protocols in public establishments and highlights the rapid response capabilities of Canadian public health systems. Vancouver Coastal Health has established a dedicated information line at 1-888-663-7100 for concerned citizens seeking additional guidance.
As Sechelt residents navigate this health alert, many are left wondering: how can communities better balance vibrant dining cultures with the necessary safeguards to prevent such infectious disease exposures in the future?
