Hepatitis A in Australia - New South wales and Victoria

Two outbreaks of hepatitis A have been reported in Australia. As of 12 January there were 30 cases in New South Wales of whom 29 are male and 16 are men who have sex with men (MSM). There have been 27 cases in Victoria with MSM and people who inject drugs most affected.

Advice to travellers

• Most travellers will be at low risk of hepatitis A.
• As with all other illnesses spread by the faecal oral route, precautionary measures should be taken to avoid consumption of potentially contaminated drinks and drinking water and to ensure food is uncontaminated or cooked thoroughly.
• Personal hygiene when eating and drinking is also important including hand washing prior to eating and using clean plates, cups and utensils.

When to consider vaccination

Vaccination should be considered under the following circumstances and is dependent on the individual risk assessment

• Non immune travellers to developing countries are at most risk of infection.
• Occasionally cases have occurred in travellers staying in good quality hotel accommodation but the risk is increased for:
• those travelling to areas where they will be exposed to unsafe drinking water
• where sanitation conditions are poor
• travellers visiting friends and family
• long stay travellers.
• Men who have sex with men (MSM)

For further information see Hepatitis A.