Prague is tightening hygiene measures on its public transport network after a sharp rise in hepatitis A cases.

The city’s transport authority (DPP) announced it will increase the use of disinfectants, add special cleanings at the busiest metro stations, and launch a prevention campaign to inform passengers.

Since January, more than 700 cases of hepatitis A have been reported in the capital. By comparison, only 47 cases were recorded in all of last year.

“In the past week alone, we registered 75 new cases, and epidemiologists have ordered almost 4,000 medical inspections,” said Petra Batók, spokesperson for the Prague Hygiene Station.

At the request of public health officials, the transport company has strengthened disinfection procedures. “We are disinfecting as often as possible, using concentrations equivalent to those applied during the Covid pandemic,” explained Jan Barchánek, operations director at DPP. He added that the busiest metro stations will undergo extraordinary cleanings, with particular attention to frequently touched surfaces.

City Campaign for Prevention

The city is also focusing on education. Leaflets produced by the Hygiene Station will be displayed in trams, buses, metro stations, and city hall buildings. Information will appear on panels across Prague, social media, and official websites. Printed materials will also be available at city hall counters.

The campaign highlights preventive steps such as thorough handwashing with soap and warm water, or using disinfectant gel when handwashing is not possible.

Recognizing the Disease

Doctors remind the public that hepatitis A can initially resemble the flu, with fever, nausea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. As the infection progresses, symptoms may include yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, and itchy skin.

Authorities stress that while the outbreak is serious, public transport in Prague remains safe thanks to intensified cleaning and prevention measures.

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