Red alert: Hepatitis A is spreading rapidly in the Czech Republic!

Red alert: Hepatitis A is spreading rapidly in the Czech Republic!

Hepatitis A infection is spreading alarmingly in the Czech Republic, especially in the capital Prague. British media is warning tourists about the rising number of cases, which have risen to 450 confirmed infections and six deaths as of May 5, 2024. In view of this worrying development, health experts are calling for precautionary measures. A total of 636 cases were recorded throughout 2024, including two fatal cases.

The chief hygienist Dr. Macková highlighted the dramatic increase in infections and emphasized that teenagers, young adults and people with risky behavior are particularly affected. It spreads primarily through the fecal-oral route, through contaminated food or water. The incubation period is between 14 and 50 days, with most cases showing symptoms around 30 days after infection.

Regional distribution and symptoms

The most affected regions in the Czech Republic are Central Bohemia with 87 cases, Moravia-Silesia with 83 cases and Prague itself with 73 cases. Typical symptoms of the disease include jaundice, dark urine and intense itching. In children, the disease can often be asymptomatic, while adults may show delayed symptoms.

The Czech Ministry of Health has issued a strong warning that travelers are particularly at risk. People who travel frequently or stay with locals, as well as those with existing health problems, are at higher risk of becoming infected. Health experts recommend vaccination against hepatitis A before traveling. In Germany there is no compulsory vaccination, but an indication vaccination is recommended, especially for children who can be vaccinated from the age of one.

Recommended precautions

To minimize the risk of infection, tourists in the Czech Republic should take special precautions when choosing food. It is recommended to avoid raw salads, unpeeled fruits, ice cream, raw or semi-raw seafood, and undercooked foods. Experts also emphasize the importance of basic hygiene measures when traveling to contain the spread of the virus.

These warnings come at a critical time in a region where the virus is increasingly gaining a foothold. The upcoming travel behavior of tourists during the summer months could further aggravate the situation. Therefore, it is essential for travelers to the Czech Republic to inform themselves about the health risks and take necessary precautions.

For more information on the spread of hepatitis A in the Czech Republic, visit news.de and euronews.com.