Category Archives: Food Virus Death

USA – Famous Anthony’s owners filing for bankruptcy in wake of Hepatitis A outbreak

Food Safety News

Owners of a Roanoke, VA, restaurant chain have closed one location and are filing bankruptcy for two others in relation to a deadly hepatitis A outbreak that swept through the community this past fall.

At least four people have died, more than 50 were sickened and 36 people were hospitalized in the outbreak associated with an infected employee who worked at three Famous Anthony’s locations. An infected person can transmit the virus to others up to two weeks before and one week after symptoms appear. 

Attorney Andrew Goldstein said the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing allows the company to reorganize and remain open. In 90 days, the company owners will submit a plan outlining a payment schedule for the people who have claims against their restaurants.

USA – One death confirmed, another under investigation in Pennsylvania hepatitis A outbreak; officials name restaurant

Food Safety News

The Montgomery County Office of Public Health in Pennsylvania announced today the temporary closure of Gino’s Ristorante & Pizzeria in West Norriton in relation to a deadly hepatitis A virus outbreak.

County officials say the restaurant will be closed until further notice while the investigation continues.

Authorities believe the outbreak began in late November, and current data suggests that the outbreak “no longer presents a risk.” However, officials are continuing to look into the situation.

Per standard public health protocols, the county health department coordinated with the Pennsylvania Department of Health to issue a health advisory on Wednesday, but the restaurant was not named at that time. The county continues to receive additional information to support its investigation and identify additional potential cases.

Investigation conducted to date suggests the exposure occurred in late November and no longer presents a risk. However, additional investigation into probable cases resulting from the health advisory associated with this outbreak are underway.