24 June 2005

Hepatitis A in the Russian Federation

An outbreak of hepatitis A has been reported from the Tver province of Russia beginning in early June. The reports have appeared in the Russian media and on ProMed. [1]

Nearly 700 people, including almost 200 children, have been affected primarily in the cities of Rzhev, Zubtsov and Olenino, all in the Tver province (approximately 200 km west of Moscow ). Although the outbreak is thought to be under control more cases are expected due to the incubation period of hepatitis A, and, depending upon effectiveness of control measures, contact tracing and vaccination, a wave of secondary cases could occur. The source of the outbreak has not been confirmed but is thought to be contamination at a drinks manufacturer in the region.

Hepatitis A transmission, together with many other infections, is associated with the consumption of contaminated food or liquids. Travellers are reminded of the importance of seeking health advice before travelling overseas, practicing food and water hygiene precautions, as well as receiving appropriate vaccinations. Given the scale of the current outbreak, travellers visiting this region of Russia should consider receiving hepatitis A vaccine.

Reference:

1. ProMED Mail. Hepatitis A in Russia (Tver) (07) 22 June 2005 http://www.promedmail.org/pls/askus/f?p=2400:1001:448415::

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