LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WHAS11) -- Louisville is known as a foodie city and while the recent hepatitis A outbreak is surprising to health care workers, Connie Mendel says it's not a fear you should have while eating out.
"None of our cases in Jefferson County have been related to foodborne transmission," she told WHAS11.
Mendel says she can't be more direct. She says employees at several Louisville restaurants have come down with the virus through other mean and when that happens, the stores go through a rigorous cleaning process.
"It's very unfortunate when they have an employee that is diagnosed, but once we are alerted to that, and the work we do with them, makes them some of the safest restaurants to eat in our community," Mendel said.
Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness employees inspect more than 4,000 food service business at least twice a year, including unannounced visits.
Mendel says she's encouraging more businesses to educate their workers about preventative measures by handing out more handwashing reminder stickers.
"Washing your hands before and after glove use; absolutely after bathroom use. But, that's part of our regular inspection and we've actually stepped that up," she described.
Last month, an employee at the Bearno's franchise on Westport Road tested positive for hep A. Since then, the owners have reimbursed customers $7,000 for their vaccines.
The owner of the Bearno's by the second street bridge is now requiring his employees to get the vaccine. George Timmering is also requiring it for new hires.
"It's my obligation to protect all employees, themselves, protect the customers and protect the business," he said.