Hepatitis A Outbreak: Cases Rise in Latina, Italy & School Meal Changes

An increase in Hepatitis A cases has been reported in the province of Latina, Italy, prompting a response from local health authorities. As of March 23, 2026, a total of 24 cases have been identified across several municipalities including Aprilia, Fondi, Formia, Latina, Sabaudia, Sermoneta, Campodimele, Priverno, Lenola, and Terracina. Six patients are currently hospitalized, all in stable condition and receiving care in general wards.

Public Health Response and Investigation

The Local Health Authority (ASL) of Latina has activated a multidisciplinary task force to contain the spread of the virus and protect public health. This task force, coordinated by the General Management, includes representatives from the Prevention Department, the Hygiene and Public Health Service (Sisp), the Animal Food Hygiene Structure, and the Infectious Diseases Unit. They are working in close coordination with the Regional Infectious Disease Surveillance Service (SeReSMI) and the Health Promotion and Prevention Area of the Lazio Region. Details of the response were released in a press statement on March 23rd.

Initial actions include rigorous inspections of restaurants and retail food outlets throughout the province. The ASL has also issued detailed communications to municipalities and the provincial school office outlining preventative measures and containment strategies. General practitioners and pediatricians have been informed of best practices to share with patients, emphasizing thorough hand hygiene and proper food preparation – specifically, the importance of washing foods and avoiding raw or undercooked items.

Understanding Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is an acute liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). It’s typically transmitted through the fecal-oral route, meaning it spreads when someone ingests something – food or water – contaminated with the virus, or through close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and dark urine.

While most people recover fully from Hepatitis A, it can sometimes lead to more serious complications, particularly in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent Hepatitis A infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides comprehensive information on Hepatitis A, including symptoms, transmission, prevention, and treatment.

Focus on Mollusk Monitoring

In addition to the broader preventative measures, authorities are evaluating a plan for extraordinary monitoring of mollusk farms in the region. Here’s a precautionary step to strengthen controls along the entire mollusk supply chain. Mollusks, like oysters and clams, can accumulate viruses from contaminated water, making them a potential source of infection if not properly harvested and processed. This heightened surveillance aims to minimize any potential risk associated with the consumption of these shellfish.

Broader Regional Concerns and School Measures

The outbreak in Latina follows a similar situation in Naples and its province, indicating a wider regional concern. In response to increasing cases in the Campania region, some schools in the Salerno area have temporarily suspended serving fresh fruit in school cafeterias. This decision, taken as a precaution, aims to reduce any potential risk of transmission through food. Instead, fresh fruit is being replaced with packaged fruit juices or pureed fruit in sealed containers. Latina Quotidiano reports on the wider regional context.

These measures in Salerno highlight the importance of rigorous hygiene practices in food preparation and handling, particularly in settings serving vulnerable populations like schoolchildren. Local administrations are collaborating with health authorities and food service providers to ensure all necessary precautions are taken.

What to Expect in the Coming Weeks

The ASL of Latina emphasizes its commitment to closely monitoring the situation and maintaining open communication with relevant stakeholders. Continued surveillance, coupled with the implementation of preventative measures, will be crucial in controlling the outbreak. The Lazio Region is expected to provide further guidance and support as the situation evolves. Individuals are encouraged to stay informed through official public health updates and to consult with a healthcare professional if they experience any symptoms consistent with Hepatitis A.

The ongoing monitoring of the outbreak will likely involve analyzing epidemiological data to identify potential sources of infection and risk factors. This information will be used to refine prevention strategies and target interventions effectively. Further investigation into the specific strains of the virus circulating in the region may also be conducted to understand the outbreak’s origins and transmission patterns.