Hepatitis A Outbreak Linked to Fresh Juice at Boulder Restaurant

BOULDER, Colo. — Boulder County health officials issued a warning Tuesday after beverages containing freshly squeezed juice served at a local Mexican restaurant were linked to potential hepatitis A exposure. The contaminated drinks were served at Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant, located at 1101 Walnut St., on Dec. 30, 2024, and Jan. 5, 2025.

According to Boulder County Public Health, the risk is limited to drinks containing fresh juice consumed on those specific dates. No other locations or menu items were affected, and there is no ongoing risk to the public. Officials emphasized that beverages without fresh juice or served on other days are not considered a potential exposure risk.

Individuals who consumed the affected drinks on Dec. 30 are advised to monitor for symptoms over the next four weeks, as it is too late for a vaccine to prevent illness. Those who consumed the drinks on Jan. 5 and are not up to date on their hepatitis A vaccination should receive a vaccine by Jan. 19 to prevent infection.

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection that spreads through fecal-oral contamination, often via contaminated food or beverages. Symptoms, which typically appear two to six weeks after exposure, include jaundice, dark urine, fatigue, fever, nausea, and stomach pain. Severe cases can lead to liver damage or failure, particularly in older adults or those with underlying health conditions.

“While there are no specific treatments for Hepatitis A, vaccination is a safe and effective way to prevent the virus,” county health officials stated. “Adults who haven’t been fully vaccinated with two doses, or who haven’t had Hepatitis A, can receive the vaccine, including pregnant women.”

Free hepatitis A vaccinations will be available at the Sundquist Building, located at 3482 Broadway in Boulder, for individuals who consumed the potentially contaminated beverages and are not up to date on their vaccinations. No appointments are necessary. CU Boulder is also offering vaccinations, and residents outside Boulder County can find vaccine providers through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

For more information, contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment at 303-692-2700 or visit their website.