Hepatitis A in the Czech Republic

The Czech National Institute of Public Health reports widespread occurrence of hepatitis A in 2025. On 5 May 2025, it was reported that there had been 450 cases of hepatitis A (including 6 deaths) in the first four months of the year.

Affected areas include Central Bohemia, Moravia-Silesia and Prague. Children and adolescents and young adults have been affected, as well as higher risk groups such as homeless people and those who use drugs.

Advice to travellers

• Most travellers to countries in Europe are 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 dependent on individual risk assessment

• 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.