August 22, 2025, 4:21 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Recently, a sharp increase in hepatitis A infections has been recorded in several European vacation destinations. The viruses can be transmitted in various ways. Before heading on vacation, it’s important to check if you have all the necessary vaccinations.
Popular Vacation Destinations Report Hepatitis Increase
From January to May 2025, infections with hepatitis A have sharply increased in several Central European countries, which are also potential vacation spots, according to the pharmaceutical company GSK. In the Czech Republic, 600 new cases were reported, in Slovakia 880, in Austria 87, and in Hungary 530. It’s all the more important to address this issue before traveling.
How is hepatitis transmitted? How can I protect myself? Am I vaccinated? These questions should be considered before a trip—but many seem uncertain about their vaccination status. A TRAVELBOOK survey shows that nearly ten percent of respondents don’t know if they are vaccinated against hepatitis A or B. It’s easy to contract the virus while on vacation.
How Hepatitis A Is Transmitted
Hepatitis A viruses are found worldwide. However, according to GSK, caution is advised when traveling to most tropical areas, the Mediterranean region, and Eastern Europe. Regions with low hygiene standards are particularly problematic. But you can also get infected in places you might not initially suspect, such as at a buffet.
Not only contaminated drinking water can transmit the hepatitis A virus, but also contaminated food. Salads or raw foods, often found at hotel buffets, may be fertilized with feces or washed with contaminated water.
Additionally, infection can occur through contact transmission, such as via toilets or door handles. The virus can also be transmitted from person to person, for example, through unprotected sexual intercourse.
Here are some tips to follow while on vacation to avoid infection:
- Avoid salads, shellfish, raw meat, and raw fish
- No ice cubes in drinks
- Do not drink tap water
- Avoid dairy products and ice cream