Over recent times, there have been several examples in the media of consumers who have been affected by Hepatitis A.
These people contracted Hepatitis A through the consumption of frozen mixed berries, and more recently, frozen pomegranate seeds which led to the death of a 64 year old Australian woman.
Hepatitis A is one of five strains of Hepatitis (a liver disease), which is contracted when infected faecal matter is ingested. One of the common ways in which Hepatitis A is spread, is through poor hand hygiene. Therefore, there are many examples of people contracting Hepatitis A when consuming foods prepared by people with poor hand hygiene.
Although symptoms of Hepatitis A are treatable, they can cause significant pain and discomfort, requiring time off work.
According to the SA Health Topic in relation to Hepatitis A, symptoms can last one to two weeks, or several months in severe cases. In addition, people who have been infected by Hepatitis A will likely have to pay for treatment expenses.
If you have been infected by Hepatitis A, and if it can be linked to the consumption of food or produce, such as from a frozen foods company, café, restaurant or otherwise, you may be entitled to compensation, which can include for:
- pain and suffering;
- time off work;
- additional care that you have required; and
- past and future medical expenses.