The ECDC has reported a rise in hepatitis A cases observed in six EU countries and the UK, all of which share closely related sequences. To date, Hungary is most affected with 161 of the 303 cases since December last year, followed by the UK with 76 and 35 in Slovenia. According to the agency, current data ‘suggest that human-to-human transmission has occurred, and possibly also transmission through contaminated food’. Read more
Advice for travellers
Hepatitis A (HAV) is a vaccine-preventable viral disease passed on to humans primarily through oral contact with faeces of an infected person. This can occur through contaminated food and water, by handling everyday items and some types of sexual contact. It is a significant risk in travellers to developing countries where sanitation and hygiene are lacking. A course of hepatitis A vaccine offers immunity that is highly effective and offers long term protection.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.