The Central District Health Department said on Tuesday that patrons of the Red Feather Lounge in Boise may have been exposed to Hepatitis A.

Officials say the dates of possible exposure range from March 5-17. An employee there has been confirmed as having the disease. While the risk to public health is low, there is the possibility that Red Feather patrons could have been exposed to Hepatitis A. Officials say there is no evidence of a Hepatitis A outbreak associated with Red Feather.

Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by the Hepatitis A virus and can affect anyone. It's usually spread by eating or drinking food items that have been contaminated with Hepatitis A from someone who hasn't properly washed their hands after using the bathroom.

Officials say that if you ate at the restaurant between those dates you need to be given a vaccination immediately. They also urge to contact your doctor if you have the following symptoms: fever, loss of appetite, jaundice, abdominal discomfort or nausea.

Officials say Red Feather has cooperated fully.

"They have taken the advice we have given them to heart," said Dave Fotsch, spokesman for Central District Health. "We believe it is a perfectly safe place to eat."
"It is problematic because we were there with twice within a week," said Pat Moloney, who ate at the restaurant during the time frame and spent Tuesday getting tested.

Central District Health and Southwest District Health will have Hepatitis A vaccine and immune globulin available on a limited basis. People interested in getting the vaccine will need to call Central District Health at 327-7450 or Southwest District Health at 455-5300.

Central District has also extended its clinic hours on Wednesday due to high demand from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.