Multi-country outbreak of hepatitis A in the EU/EEA

Slovakia

####Update June 30th, 2025:
The hepatitis A outbreak affecting Austria, Czechia, Hungary, and Slovakia has grown significantly, with over 2,000 confirmed cases since January 2025. The case distribution includes approximately 880 in Slovakia, 600 in Czechia, 530 in Hungary, and 87 in Austria. Additionally, Germany has reported genetically linked cases, suggesting cross-border transmission.

Tragically, nine deaths have been reported so far, six in Czechia and three in Austria, mostly among older individuals or those with pre-existing liver conditions.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) confirmed that two genetically related HAV strains are driving this outbreak. While person-to-person transmission remains the primary mode of spread, foodborne transmission has not been ruled out. Vulnerable populations, including those experiencing homelessness, drug use, or poor sanitation, continue to be most at risk.

The ECDC urges increased vaccination, targeted outreach, hygiene improvements, and cross-border cooperation. Travelers to affected areas are advised to get vaccinated and practice strict hygiene.

Source: www.healthandme.com/health-news/hepatitis-a-outbreak-in-europe-ecdc-confirms-over-2000-cases-in-austria-hungary-czechia-slovakia-article-152169255


June 28th, 2025:
A multi-country outbreak of hepatitis A has been reported in the EU/EEA, affecting Austria, Czechia, Hungary, and Slovakia. The outbreak involves two closely related hepatitis A virus (HAV) subgenotype IB strains, with a significant number of cases reported among vulnerable populations. The outbreak has resulted in an increased number of infections from January to May 2025.

The outbreak primarily impacts adults experiencing homelessness, individuals who use or inject drugs, and those living in poor sanitary conditions. Additionally, cases have been reported among Roma communities in Czech Republic and Slovakia. The risk of transmission is assessed as high within these groups, particularly for adults over 40 and those with predisposing liver conditions. The broader population in affected countries faces a low to moderate risk, while non-affected EU/EEA countries have a very low to low risk.

The outbreak was discovered through sequence data analysis, which identified two clusters of HAV subgenotype IB strains across Austria, Germany, Hungary, and Slovakia. Health authorities are investigating potential transmission routes and considering targeted vaccination programs to mitigate the spread of the virus. Enhanced sequencing efforts are also underway to better understand the epidemiological diversity of the outbreak.



Source: www.ecdc.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/Multi-country_outbreak_of_HepA_June_2025.pdf