Prague Battles Decades-Worst Hepatitis A Outbreak Amid Surging Cases

Prague Declares Local Hepatitis A Epidemic

Prague is currently facing its most severe Hepatitis A outbreak in decades, with health authorities reporting a significant surge in cases. In the past week alone, doctors in the Czech capital have recorded over 60 new infections, a figure that approximately equals the total number of cases reported in Prague over the previous three years combined. This alarming increase has led the Prague Hygiene Station to declare a 'local epidemic' in the city.

Since the beginning of the year, nearly 890 cases of Hepatitis A have been reported in Prague, including almost 160 cases involving children. The capital remains the epicenter of the outbreak, accounting for more than 40 percent of all infections across the Czech Republic.

Nationwide Impact and Fatalities

The outbreak extends beyond Prague, with the virus beginning to spread to other regions of the Czech Republic. As of October 5, the National Institute of Public Health reported a total of 1,842 cases nationwide, marking the second-highest figure since 1989. Tragically, 21 people have died across the country as a result of the disease. In Prague specifically, 10 fatalities have been recorded.

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route via contaminated hands, food, or water. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, and jaundice, though many infected individuals may show no symptoms at all, increasing the risk of unknowing transmission.

Public Health Response and Prevention Efforts

In response to the escalating situation, Czech health officials are emphasizing the importance of stringent hygiene practices and vaccination. Petra Batók, spokeswoman for the Prague Hygiene Station, underscored the seriousness of the situation, stating that it is 'really important to pay attention to the situation.'

Measures being implemented include:

• Increased disinfection frequency and strength in Prague Public Transit vehicles and heavily used metro stations, returning to levels seen during the coronavirus pandemic.
• Launch of public information campaigns through leaflets, billboards, social media, and public offices to raise awareness.
• Targeted vaccination efforts for at-risk groups, such as homeless individuals and those in close contact with infected persons.

While vaccination is considered the most effective protection, temporary shortages of vaccines have been reported, particularly for children, due to high demand. However, emergency vaccine deliveries have been arranged, with additional shipments expected. Over 112,000 people have been vaccinated this year across the country.

Outlook and Expert Warnings

Epidemiologists warn that the epidemic has not yet reached its peak, with experts suggesting the infection may shift between regions as immunity levels change. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has also issued warnings about increased Hepatitis A transmission in Central Europe, with neighboring countries like Slovakia, Austria, and Hungary reporting elevated numbers.

Authorities continue to urge residents and visitors to maintain thorough handwashing and consider vaccination as crucial steps to curb the spread of this serious public health threat.