Guest sues Denny’s, says it fed him hepatitis A-contaminated food in Kissimmee restaurant
As 2019 came to an end, a hepatitis A outbreak struck Florida, leading to a public health emergency. Now, Denny’s is being sued for its alleged role in spreading the disease.
The year saw 3,397 cases reported, which was more than all the cases from 2015 to 2018 combined. Most were in central and western Florida, though cases popped up around the state.
One Central Florida restaurant affected by the hepatitis A boom was a Kissimmee Denny’s, where two workers were diagnosed with the virus in November.
At the time, Denny’s put out a statement that said once they learned about the two workers at the 2051 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway Denny’s, they closed the restaurant and notified the Florida Department of Health in Osceola County.
On Oct. 13, William Reyes dined at that Kissimmee Denny’s and was exposed to and contracted the virus, according to a lawsuit filed in Osceola County. Reyes contends he ate food or drank water that had been contaminated with the poop of an infected person.
Reyes is suing Denny’s and EYM Realty of Florida, which operates the restaurant franchise, for damages that exceed $30,000.
According to the suit, a few days after eating at the restaurant Reyes “began experiencing nausea, constipation, fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, and significant weight loss.”
Reyes alleges Denny’s was negligent in several areas, claiming it “negligently prepared, delivered, and/or sold the subject food and drinks in an unreasonably dangerous condition.”
Denny’s said in a statement, “Denny’s is aware of the ongoing legal action in Osceola County and is reviewing the case. While we cannot comment on the specifics of ongoing legal matters, we will be working with the involved parties to resolve this case as quickly and effectively as possible. Denny’s is a family restaurant that strives to ensure the safety and enjoyment of its guests.”
Hepatitis A cases in Florida have dropped drastically since last year. While the final months of 2019 saw more than 200 cases each month, only 156 case were reported in January and 38 as of Feb. 8, according to FDOH data.
The Centers for Disease Control and Florida Department of Health say that vaccination is the best way to prevent a hepatitis A infection. Regular and thorough hand-washing also prevents the spread.
This story was originally published February 14, 2020 at 11:58 AM.
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