Hepatitis A Outbreak Strikes 4 Popular Vacation Destinations — Over 2,000 Infected, 9 Dead
A deadly hepatitis A outbreak has hit four major European vacation spots, leaving thousands sick and nine dead. Health officials say the outbreak has spread across four countries in Central Europe, spurring urgent calls for vaccination and awareness as the summer travel season approaches.
Here’s what you need to know before packing your bags.
Over 2,000 Sick and 9 Dead from Virus Outbreak
The virus is rapidly circulating through Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovakia, all of which are among the top travel destinations for Europeans and international visitors alike. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) confirmed more than 2,097 cases from January to May 2025.
Slovakia: 880 confirmed cases
Hungary: 530 cases
Czechia: 474 cases and six deaths
Austria: 213 cases and three deaths
Germany has reported secondary cases linked to travelers returning from the affected regions.
What Is Hepatitis A and How Does It Spread?
At its core, hepatitis A is a virus that messes with your liver. It spreads easily, usually through food or water that’s been contaminated with fecal matter. Gross, yes. But also, more common than you’d think, especially in places where hygiene isn’t up to par.
Here’s what makes it worse: the virus can hang out on surfaces for months. That hotel remote, that airport sink handle, that bar counter? If someone infected touched it, and you touch it next, you could be in trouble.
People at High Risk
Short answer: anyone can get it. But people living in tight quarters or with limited access to hygiene are more exposed. Same goes for folks who use injectable drugs, people experiencing homelessness, kids, seniors, and travelers eating street food or raw dishes.
And don’t assume you’ll know right away. Hepatitis A can incubate for up to 50 days. That means someone could be spreading the virus for weeks before feeling even a little off.
What Are the Symptoms?
The most recognizable symptom is jaundice or yellowing of the skin and eyes. Other common red flags include dark-colored urine, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, fever, and a deep sense of fatigue or loss of appetite.
In most cases, people recover on their own within a few weeks. But in more severe cases, especially among older adults or those with underlying liver problems, the virus can turn deadly. This outbreak has already claimed nine lives.
If you’ve recently traveled and start feeling off, don’t guess. Call your doctor and mention your trip. Catching it early can make all the difference.
What Travelers Should Do Now
Health agencies are urging travelers to get vaccinated against hepatitis A at least two weeks before departure. However, even last-minute travelers may benefit, as the vaccine can still offer some protection after exposure.
Vacation Destinations, Real Risks
Budapest, Vienna, Prague, and Bratislava are popular for summer getaways, music festivals, and river cruises. All of which can be hotspots for transmission if precautions are not properly followed.
While this outbreak shouldn’t stop travel outright, it does warrant caution. Vaccination, hygiene, and awareness are the key pillars of prevention.
Czech health authorities are leading the charge with public awareness campaigns and free vaccination clinics. The ECDC has echoed those efforts, recommending vaccination even for travelers who believe they’ve already been exposed.
“The risk is real, but preventable,” said a spokesperson for the Czech Ministry of Health.
Don’t Cancel — Just Be Smart
Before you check into that charming European inn or order fresh fruit from a street vendor, make sure you’re protected. A simple vaccine and wise hygiene choices can save your trip and possibly your life.
Did you find this helpful? Save it, share it, and send it to your travel group chat — because good trips start with thoughtful planning.