Epidemic hazard

A hepatitis A outbreak has resulted in 25 confirmed cases in the Algarve since August, the regional health authority has announced, with most cases involving children and young people.
The outbreak’s first case was identified on August 15, with the most recent being detected on November 26.
Of the cases in the Algarve, 16 were detected among children and young people, and nine were adults, including one healthcare professional. Those affected live in three areas of the municipality of Faro and one in Olhão, with most cases detected among people living in housing with poor hygiene and sanitation conditions that facilitate the spread of such diseases.
In addition to cases within the Algarve, the outbreak has been linked to one case in the Lisbon and Tagus Valley region and six in the Alentejo region.
Despite thorough epidemiological and environmental investigations, the exact source of the outbreak is unclear.
All those affected showed symptoms such as fever, jaundice, pale stools, abdominal pain, fatigue, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting.
Hepatitis A is an inflammation of the liver that can cause mild to severe illness. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the virus is transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food and water or through direct contact with an infectious person. Almost everyone recovers fully from hepatitis A with a lifelong immunity. However, a very small proportion of people infected with hepatitis A could die from fulminant hepatitis.