Hepatitis A outbreak in Czech Republic

Health authorities have reported an outbreak of hepatitis A in the municipality of Ustí nad Labem, north of Prague. At least 276 people have been infected, 30 of whom were diagnosed in the past 6 days. Of the 30 new cases, 17 are children. A rapidly-evolving outbreak of this disease usually indicates extensive exposure to contaminated food or water.

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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.