Hungary is battling a growing outbreak of hepatitis A, with over 1,600 cases reported nationwide as of November 19, 2025-a surge mirroring trends in neighboring Austria, Czechia, and Slovakia [[1]]. Health officials are particularly concerned by the concentration of infections in specific regions and among children, as well as the recent deaths of four adults with underlying health conditions. this outbreak highlights the importance of preventative measures and access to vaccination, especially as the virus can spread easily through contaminated food or water [[2]].
Hungary is experiencing a surge in hepatitis A cases this year, mirroring a trend seen in neighboring Austria, Czech Republic, and Slovakia. As of November 19, 2025, health officials have reported 1,648 cases nationwide, prompting concerns about potential further spread. The increase underscores the importance of preventative measures, particularly hygiene practices.
The majority of reported cases – 56% – are among men, with 44% occurring in women. The National Public Health and Pharmaceutical Center (NNGYK) data indicates that the highest concentrations of infections are in Budapest, as well as the counties of Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén and Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg.
A significant portion of infections are affecting children between the ages of 3 and 14. While many cases are asymptomatic, allowing the virus to spread unknowingly, four adults with underlying chronic illnesses have died after contracting hepatitis A.
Hepatitis A primarily spreads through the fecal-oral route – by consuming contaminated food or water, or through contact with an infected person. This can occur through unclean hands, or food like unwashed produce. The risk of infection is elevated in areas with poor sanitation.
The virus has a relatively long incubation period, averaging about a month. Initial symptoms often include abdominal pain, nausea, loss of appetite, general malaise, fever, and muscle and joint pain. Jaundice – a yellowing of the skin and eyes – is a characteristic sign of hepatitis A, but typically develops later in the illness, often prompting initial suspicion of the infection.
Children are particularly likely to experience asymptomatic infections. While the illness is usually mild, it can become more severe with age and in individuals with pre-existing health conditions. The NNGYK emphasizes the critical role of establishing proper handwashing habits from a young age, especially after using the restroom and before eating.
Free vaccinations are available to close contacts of individuals infected with hepatitis A, such as family members or those living in the same household. These vaccinations are organized by the relevant epidemiological authorities, with the vaccine supply provided by the NNGYK.
Concerns about hepatitis A resurfaced last fall in Jászapáti, where an outbreak was reported. Reports from the area detailed vaccination efforts in response to the outbreak. Earlier this year, in January, a 70-year-old woman was hospitalized at Semmelweis University’s emergency clinic with a hepatitis A infection. Family members alleged that the local epidemiological office did not take sufficient action to contain the spread, and were eventually vaccinated by a doctor at the hospital. Authorities maintain that necessary measures were taken and that the infection is not currently spreading within hospitals.
