January 18, 2008-- BAKERSFIELD -- Customers at a northwest Bakersfield restaurant were exposed to an employee diagnosed with hepatitis A earlier this month.

The foodserver/cashier at Chuy's Broiler worked every day from January 4-10 except for the 6th, while unknowingly infected with the illness.
She was diagnosed with hepatitis A after feeling symptomatic, and notified the restaurant. She is being held from work pending medical clearance.

Due to the quick response by Chuy's, the risk of customers being infected is minimal, according to Dr. Claudia Jonah of the health department.
Customers who went to Chuy's on January 4-5 and on January 7-10 and are not already vaccinated against hepatitis A can receive a free vaccine paid for by Chuy's.