Hepatitis A Outbreak Affects Thousands of Travelers Across Europe

Hepatitis A Outbreak Affects Thousands of Travelers Across Europe

A recent surge in hepatitis A cases has left thousands of travelers ill and led to multiple fatalities at popular European destinations. Governments in Austria, Czechia, Hungary, and Slovakia have reported alarming spikes in cases between January and May 2025, as highlighted in a rapid risk assessment by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

So far, the four countries have collectively recorded 2,097 cases of hepatitis A.

Countries at Risk

Slovakia has been particularly hard hit, managing an ongoing outbreak since 2022, with 880 reported cases. In Czechia, the situation is similarly concerning, as the country has documented 600 infections and six associated deaths. Hungary follows with 530 cases reported in 2025, while Austria has accounted for 87 cases.

Understanding Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is classified as an acute viral liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). The disease predominantly spreads through contaminated food or water and is also transmitted between individuals through close contact.

Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst at one news outlet, emphasizes that hepatitis A is a highly transmissible illness, particularly among food handlers. He warns that this infection can render individuals seriously ill.

Vaccination Importance

The ECDC highlights that people who have not received the hepatitis A vaccination or have not previously contracted the virus are particularly vulnerable to infection. Vaccination consists of two doses, administered six to twelve months apart, according to Dr. Siegel.

Once infected, individuals typically develop lifetime immunity. Doctors can assess a person’s immunity by checking titre levels, indicating whether prior vaccination has been effective.

Vulnerable Populations

Certain groups are at heightened risk for hepatitis A infections, including individuals who are homeless, those who consume recreational drugs, or those living in unsanitary conditions. Additionally, limited access to healthcare further exacerbates their vulnerability.

The ECDC identifies a moderate risk for individuals under 40 years old within these populations, while the risk escalates for those aged 40 and older, as the severity of the disease increases with age.

For people with pre-existing liver conditions or older adults, the risk of severe illness is notably high. For the general public in these nations, the risk is categorized as low to moderate.

Furthermore, individuals who are immunosuppressed are also at an increased risk of contracting the virus, as indicated in the health alert.

Symptoms and Public Health Response

Not everyone infected will exhibit symptoms, but those who do may experience a range of common effects, as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This outbreak serves as a critical reminder that hepatitis A poses serious health risks, particularly for those with limited access to healthcare and hygiene practices. Ole Heuer, head of the ECDC’s One Health Unit, has commented on the situation, urging for improved outreach and access to vaccinations for high-exposure groups.

Strengthening Preventative Measures

The ECDC is advocating for a multi-faceted approach to contain the outbreak. Recommendations include investigating potential transmission pathways of hepatitis A, including risks associated with food and unintentional transmission to other high-risk populations.

Furthermore, the agency is calling for targeted vaccination initiatives, the implementation of post-exposure preventative measures for close contacts, and increased genetic testing of the virus. Education and awareness efforts must also be directed toward vulnerable communities to limit the spread of the disease.

Prevention Through Vaccination

The CDC reinforces that timely administration of the hepatitis A vaccine or immune globulin within two weeks following exposure can effectively prevent the onset of illness.

In light of the ongoing outbreak and its implications for public health, awareness and proactive measures are essential in managing the situation as the summer travel season approaches.