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Hepatitis A in Portugal

23 June 2025

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported on 19 June 2025 of an ongoing outbreak of hepatitis A virus (HAV) in Portugal. The outbreak is mainly affecting the north and the Lisbon and Tagus Valley (LVT) regions.

Between 1 January and 31 May 2025, there were 122 cases reported associated with sexual contact among men who have sex with men (MSM). The majority of new cases have been reported among unvaccinated people. 

EuroPride 2025 Lisbon is being held in Lisbon, Portugal (14 to 22 June 2025). This event attracts a high number of international visitors that may engage in sexual activity, sometimes with multiple partners, which can increase spread of HAV and other sexually-transmitted infections.

Advice to travellers

Most travellers to countries in Europe are at low risk of hepatitis A.

As with all other illnesses spread by the faecal oral route, precautionary measures should be taken to avoid consumption of potentially contaminated drinks and drinking water and to ensure food is uncontaminated or cooked thoroughly.

Personal hygiene when eating and drinking is also important including hand washing prior to eating and using clean plates, cups and utensils.

Travellers attending Europride should know how to prevent hepatitis A infection in men who have sex with men (MSM)

When to consider vaccination

Vaccination should be considered dependent on individual risk assessment.

The risk is increased for:

  • those travelling to areas where they will be exposed to unsafe drinking water
  • where sanitation conditions are poor
  • travellers visiting friends and family
  • long stay travellers.
  • Men who have sex with men (MSM)

For further information on the disease, see TRAVAX Hepatitis A.