The Czech Republic is battling a severe hepatitis A outbreak, with infections soaring to 2,597 cases so far this year — a fourfold increase compared to last year’s 636 cases.
Health officials warn that the virus is no longer contained within traditional high-risk groups and is now spreading widely across the population.
Prague Hit Hardest
According to data released by the State Health Institute, Prague leads the outbreak with 1,108 cases, followed by the Central Bohemian region with 418.
Authorities say the situation in the capital is particularly troubling because the virus has spread outside communities normally associated with poor hygiene, meaning everyday residents are now at risk.
29 Deaths Recorded — Mostly Men With Health Issues
The outbreak has already claimed 29 lives, with the majority of victims being men who also suffered from serious underlying conditions such as alcoholism or drug addiction.
Hepatitis A, typically spread through contaminated food, water, or poor sanitation, is considered highly preventable — which makes the surge even more alarming.
Vaccination Demand Soars
The crisis has driven a rapid increase in vaccination. More than 200,000 Czechs have already received the hepatitis A vaccine this year.
Health officials continue urging citizens to get vaccinated, especially in regions with high infection rates.
A Growing Public Health Concern
As cases continue to rise, experts warn that improved hygiene, rapid vaccinations, and strict public-health monitoring will be crucial to containing the outbreak.
The government is expected to announce additional measures if infection numbers continue climbing in the coming weeks.