The guests that recently ate in a historic CAPE COD restaurant may have been exposed to hepatitis A, a virus that has an impact on the liver, the state and local public health officials announced on Saturday.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has issued a warning for customers who dined at Red Inn, located at 15, St. in Provincetown, from April 30 to May 15.
Those who may have been exposed should immediately contact their doctors, said the warning.
Provincial officials said in a statement that the Red Inn is currently “open and safe at dinner” and that the restaurant “cooperates” with public health investigators.
Reached by phone, an employee of the restaurant refused to comment on Saturday evening. The restaurant did not immediately return a request for comments sent by e-mail.
Hepatitis has Can be distributed by contact close to the person to the person or by contaminated foods and drinks, according to state health officials. Immunoglobulin vaccines and drugs are generally effective only to prevent infection if administered within two weeks of exposure, before the appearance of symptoms.
The first symptoms of hepatitis A may include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and jaundice, officials said. Light cases can last two weeks, with more serious cases of six weeks or more.
Vaccination against childhood against hepatitis A has been recommended for children since 1991. This means that individuals under 34 can be immune to infections, although state officials have declared that the guests exposed should confirm their vaccination status with their doctors.
The Red Inn, originally built in 1805, has served as a hotel since 1915, according to its website. It has been recognized by several publications for its beautiful seafood restaurants, notably by Boston magazine.
Camilo Fonseca can be contacted at Camilo.fonseca@globe.com. Follow him on x @Fonseca_esq and on Instagram @ Camilo_Fonseca.reports.