Hepatitis A outbreak in school children in Hosha district, Jordan

A total of 27 children have been diagnosed with hepatitis A in the Al-Akaider area, in Hosha district, Mafraq province. An investigation to determine the source of these infections is underway. Two schools located in the area have been closed.

Advice

The occurrence of an outbreak of hepatitis A in children is a sign that this virus is widespread in this country. Travellers should be aware that hepatitis A is preventable through vaccination. When there is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus, travellers can basically eliminate this risk by obtaining the vaccine prior to travelling and by exercising caution and avoiding consuming contaminated food and water and close personal contact (including sexual activities) with infected persons.