NSW: Chef with hepatitis triggers mass screenings at club

AAP General News (Australia)
12-12-2003
NSW: Chef with hepatitis triggers mass screenings at club

SYDNEY, Dec 12 AAP - A Sydney RSL club will conduct mass screenings of its patrons
for Hepatitis A after a chef was discovered to have the disease.

Canterbury Hurlstone Park RSL managing director Dean Thomas said the club moved quickly
yesterday to contain any threat to public safety by immediately removing the chef from
active duty at the Encore restaurant.

As far as the club knew, he said no patrons had been infected with Hepatitis A as a
result of eating at the restaurant but it would set up a screening clinic as a precaution.

Mr Thomas said the club was cooperating with the Department of Health on the matter
and would also screen and vaccinate all kitchen staff.

"We deeply regret this but the safety of our customers and staff is paramount and the
club operates under a rigorous food safety program," he said.

"We would like to assure our members and guests that the chances of patrons contracting
Hepatitis A from the restaurant are remote.

"The restaurant remains open for business and the preparation of food at the club complies
with Department of Health guidelines."

The clinic will be set up at the club from tomorrow (Saturday, December 13) until next Tuesday.

The Hepatitis tests will be conducted free of charge in conjunction with the Department
of Health.

AAP ved/gmw/jnb/de

KEYWORD: HEPATITIS

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