ERIE COUNTY -- Even in the healthiest of times, the Erie County Health Department keeps an eye out for possible threats to the public.

One example took place on March 13th.

"The department conducted an exercise with public participation to train for events that may require mass immunizations," said Mark Poloncarz, D-Erie County Executive.

Just 10 days later, that exercise will be put to use.

Two health clinics are scheduled in response to a Casa-di-Pizza worker testing positive for hepatitis A.

"It's spread by people who are infected by the virus who shed virus in their stool, and then people who consume food or drink that's been handled by the person are considered exposed," said Dr. Gale Burstein, Erie County Health Commissioner.

Anyone who ate at the restaurant or its banquet rooms from February 27th to March 18th runs the risk of exposure.

The clinics will give people the chance to talk with a health professional.

Immunization shots will also be available to help prevent infection in people exposed within two weeks -- that's from March 9th on. 

Those who got a drink or meal at the bar or through takeout aren't affected.

"That food service area is completely separate from the takeout and the bar.  Even the salad preparations are completely separate -- those are done by a different group of people," Burstein said.

County Health Commissioner Gale Burstein said immunization won't work for people who may have been affected March 8th or earlier.

They should monitor their health and see their doctor or go to urgent care if they experience any of the symptoms, including fatigue, nausea and vomiting, and jaundice.

"The odds of someone actually getting the virus are very, very slim.  But there is a possibility, and because of the information that Casa-di-Pizza has provided to us, which is approximately 1,400-1,500 patrons during that period...we want to sort of nip it in the bud now," Poloncarz said.

As for Casa-di-Pizza, it worked with health officials to correct violations and throw away any food that may have been exposed.

Burstein says it's safe to eat there.

The clinics are set for Monday from noon until 8 p.m. and Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. To register, go to www.health.ny.gov/gotoclinic/15. A hotline will also begin taking calls at 9 a.m. on Monday. That number is 716-858- 2929.