The Czech Republic is facing its most dangerous hepatitis A outbreak in decades — a rapid, alarming surge that has already claimed 31 lives this year and infected nearly 3,000 people, according to newly released data from the State Health Institute (SZÚ). Health officials warn the trend is accelerating, with the capital city of Prague now the epicenter of the crisis.
This year’s numbers are not just concerning — they are unprecedented in modern Czech history. From January to November 30, health authorities recorded 2,880 confirmed cases of hepatitis A, more than quadruple the number detected in 2024.
A Deadly Spike: “Significantly Above Historic Averages”
In its Tuesday report, SZÚ described the situation as a “dramatic deviation” from normal trends. The current outbreak has already surpassed both average and maximum case counts from 2018 to 2024.
Since mid-November alone, the country recorded 283 new cases and two additional fatalities. Last year, only two people died from hepatitis A. In 2025, the death toll has skyrocketed to 31 — a fifteen-fold increase.
Many of the deceased were individuals with chronic liver disease, weakened immunity, or high-risk behavior, groups that suffer the most severe complications from the virus.
“Hepatitis A is usually survivable, but in vulnerable patients, it becomes life-threatening,” the institute warned.
Who Is Being Hit the Hardest
The outbreak is not limited to a narrow demographic. Hepatitis A is appearing across all age groups — from infants to older adults.
Key statistics:
- Most affected age group: 35–39 years
- Infants infected: 14 children under one year
- Hardest-hit regions:
- Prague – 1,251 cases
- Central Bohemian Region – 443 cases
- Least affected region: Vysočina – 28 cases
The broad geographic spread suggests the outbreak is no longer isolated but has become a nationwide public health emergency.
A Return to 1980s-Level Outbreaks
The last time the Czech Republic recorded hepatitis A numbers this high was during the 1980s, when cases ranged between 1,500 and 3,500 annually — a period marked by poor sanitation and limited vaccination.
After the 1990s, infection rates steadily declined. In 2024, only 636 people contracted the virus. The sudden explosion in 2025 has shocked both health experts and government officials.
The SZÚ warns that unless preventive measures are expanded — including vaccination campaigns, hygiene education, and targeted outreach to vulnerable groups — the outbreak could worsen further in early 2026.
Conclusion: A Public Health Battle Just Beginning
With thousands infected, dozens dead, and new cases rising weekly, the Czech Republic is confronting one of its most severe hepatitis A crises in decades. The unprecedented spike has exposed gaps in prevention, vaccination coverage, and public awareness — and has reminded the country that even “old diseases” can strike back with deadly force.