Hepatitis A Infections in Hungary Surge to 1,912 Cases Amidst Ongoing Outbreak

Escalating Hepatitis A Cases in Hungary

Hungary is currently experiencing an exceptionally severe Hepatitis A epidemic, with the number of reported infections reaching 1,912 by the 49th week of 2025. This figure, released by the National Centre for Public Health and Pharmacy (NNGYK), represents an increase of 55 cases in just one week. The current situation significantly surpasses the infection rates observed in previous years, indicating a widespread public health concern.

Scale and Context of the Outbreak

The 2025 outbreak is notably more severe than in recent history. By early November 2025, nearly 1,600 cases had already been registered, which is approximately fifteen times the annual average of 102 cases recorded between 2019 and 2023. The last comparable wave of Hepatitis A in Hungary occurred in 2014. Data from the Epidemiology and Surveillance Centre, part of Semmelweis University, indicates that the number of Hepatitis A virus (HAV) cases has significantly exceeded the five-year median value since the 48th week of 2024. A concerning aspect of the current epidemic is that more than 90% of patients have required hospital treatment.

Factors Contributing to the Spread

Experts attribute the cyclical increase in Hepatitis A cases, typically occurring every five to seven years, to a growing susceptible population lacking natural immunity, coupled with the virus's spread. This year, a new virus strain, 1B, has been identified, differing from the previously predominant 1A strain. The primary mode of transmission is through direct or indirect human contact, rather than common factors like contaminated food. The virus spreads through feces from infected individuals, close contact within households, and the shared use of toilets in communities. Contaminated water, ice, or food touched by infected hands can also lead to infection. The infection is more prevalent in areas with poor hygiene practices or inadequate clean water supplies. This pattern aligns with findings from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) report of November 28. Hungary's situation is part of a broader rise in Hepatitis A cases observed across several European countries, including Austria, Czechia, Slovakia, and Germany. Vulnerable groups, such as adults experiencing homelessness, individuals who use or inject drugs, and those living in poor sanitary conditions, are particularly affected.

Geographic Impact and Public Health Measures

Initially, the outbreak primarily affected Budapest and Pest County earlier in the year. However, in the second half of 2025, the virus's spread accelerated in Borsod and Szabolcs counties. While measures implemented in the capital and Pest County were successful in slowing the disease's progression, areas with historical endemic outbreaks, such as Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén and Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg counties, which often have conditions conducive to the disease's spread (e.g., low levels of drinking water and sewerage provision, poor hygiene practices), experienced a more rapid increase.

The NNGYK has urged healthcare professionals to consider Hepatitis A in patient care and to educate the public on prevention strategies. Key preventative measures include:

• Thorough handwashing, especially after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food.
• Avoiding the sharing of eating utensils, towels, or other personal items.
• Infected individuals should avoid physical contact with others and refrain from preparing food.

Vaccination against Hepatitis A is available by prescription and for a fee in pharmacies. It is particularly recommended for individuals traveling to high-risk areas, those with underlying health conditions (such as hemophilia or chronic Hepatitis B or C), and those with increased lifestyle risks, including intravenous drug users.