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Here’s your last chance to file a claim for Genki Sushi hepatitis A outbreak

JAMM AQUINO/ JAQUINO@STARADVERTISER.COM / 2015

Genki Sushi restaurant at Ward Village is seen closed after the state Health Department determined that the source of the hepatitis A outbreak came from raw scallops served at the restaurants.

Today is the deadline to file a claim for people who were exposed to hepatitis A during a 2016 outbreak that started from raw scallops served at Genki Sushi restaurants.

The company reached a preliminary settlement of up to $4.5 million for those who were secondarily exposed to the virus during the outbreak from June 12, 2016 through Oct. 9, 2016. There were 292 confirmed cases of hepatitis A and 74 hospitalizations during the outbreak. Genki operated 13 restaurants at the time on Oahu, Kauai and Maui.

Those exposed to the highly-contagious virus, but did not become sick are entitled to receive up to $350, $250 or $150 if they file a claim by today’s deadline.

Under the settlement, people who are eligible to receive up to $350 are those who came into contact with one of the 292 individuals infected with hepatitis A identified by the DOH as part of the outbreak. They include household members, sexual contacts and those sharing illicit drugs, food or utensils with an infected person.

Patrons who consumed food between Aug. 1 and 16, 2016, at a Genki Sushi restaurant on Oahu, Kauai or Maui during the outbreak can claim up to $250. And those who consumed food or drink from a secondary establishment where an infected employee worked during certain time frames may get up to $150.

Secondary establishments include:

>> Baskin-­Robbins at Waikele Center

>> Taco Bell in Waipahu

>> Sushi Shiono in Waikoloa

>> Chili’s Grill & Bar in Kapolei

>> 12 Hawaiian Airlines flights

>> Tamashiro Market

>> Papa John’s in Waipahu

>> New Lin Fong Bakery

>> Hokkaido Ramen Santouka

>> Kipapa Elementary School

>> Zippy’s in Kapolei

>> Harbor Restaurant at Pier 38

>> Ohana Seafood at Sam’s Club in Pearl City

>> Chart House

>> McDonald’s in Kahala

A hearing to finalize the class-action settlement is set for Dec. 11 in 1st Circuit Court. Submit a claim, request exclusion or file objections to the settlement by Nov. 29 at HawaiiHepA.com or 800-532-9250.

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