Food handler diagnosed with Hepatitis A in Ky.

ASHLAND, Ky. - The Ashland-Boyd County Health Department is investigating a hepatitis case involving a food preparation worker at Ken's Express Mart, 954 29th St. in Ashland.

The employee, who was diagnosed with Hepatitis A, prepared food at Ken's Express Mart fresh food counter during the infectious period. According to the health department, the window of possible exposure was March 22 through April 7, 2018. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says it can take up to 50 days from exposure to hepatitis A for symptoms to develop.

There is a two-week window for those who may have been exposed to receive the Hepatitis A vaccine. The last date for the post-exposure vaccine is April 19, 2018. After the 14-day window has closed, the vaccine may not be effective.

The owner and employees of Ken's Express Mart have cooperated fully in the investigation and notification of employees and patrons, according to the health department. Employees are only allowed to work if they have received the Hepatitis A vaccine.