Cafeteria worker contracts Hepatitis A

MAMARONECK, N.Y. — School officials say a cafeteria worker at the Hommocks Middle School has contracted Hepatitis A and they're keeping an eye out for any student or staff member who may exhibit symptoms of the disease.

The individual who became ill is an employee of the Aramark Food Service, which has a contract with the district.

Mamaroneck school officials were notified of the diagnosis by the Westchester County health department on Wednesday and quickly posted a letter on the district website to inform parents.

Superintendent of Schools Robert Shaps said the district has been assured by the county health commissioner, Sherlita Amler, that it is unlikely that anyone at the school would become ill.

"We've been informed by public health officials that students and staff are at low risk for contracting the disease," Shaps said Wednesday.

The cafeteria worker has not been in school for the past two weeks and is no longer symptomatic, according to the health department, Shaps wrote in the letter.

District spokeswoman Debbie Manetta said school officials have been in close communication with the health department and are following every recommendation.

"We'll continue to take every precaution recommended by the department and work closely and collaborate with them," Manetta said.