Hepatitis-A Cases in Austria Drastically Increased: Doctors Sound the Alarm

This year, the number of hepatitis A infections has tripled to 221 cases, with two people having died. "Infection with hepatitis A can happen anywhere, in Austria as well as abroad," said Naghme Kamaleyan-Schmied, Vice President of the Vienna Medical Association, on Wednesday.

The vaccination recommendation from the age of one before kindergarten was removed from the vaccination plan two years ago. This should now be reconsidered, according to Kamaleyan-Schmied.

Hepatitis A on the Rise: Cost Issue as Vaccination Hurdle

The cost per vaccination is about forty euros, which many cannot afford. It is also important that the cost of a titer determination is covered by the health insurance, said the doctor.

A generally very well-tolerated inactivated vaccine is available for immunization, which is often also available as a combination vaccine with hepatitis B. "Especially in a city of millions like Vienna, where infections can spread quickly, a high vaccination rate for so-called herd immunity is essential," emphasized Kamaleyan-Schmied. The government is urged to close the existing vaccination gap.

(APA/Red)

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