DES MOINES - State public health officials are warning people who visited Whitey's Bar and Billiards in Burlington recently they may have been exposed to hepatitis A.

A food service worker at the establishment was diagnosed with the liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus that can easily be spread through food and drinks.

Those at risk include those who consumed food or drinks containing ice or a lemon slice or anything from the salad bar between July 2 and July 13.

The Iowa Department of Public Health is telling those who have been exposed during that time period they need to get a hepatitis A vaccine or immune globulin immediately.

For patrons who were potentially exposed to the disease by eating or drinking the affected items between June 25 and July 1, it is too late for the vaccination to work.

Officials are telling them to be aware and seek treatment if they experience symptoms of the disease, which include fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, diarrhea, dark urine and jaundice.

The Des Moines County Health Department is holding vaccine clinics later this week.

For more information call (319) 753-8290 or (319)753-8700.

Contact Charlotte Eby at (515) 243-0138 or chareby@aol.com.