BANGKOK — 20 April 2026, Thai government has warned the public to remain vigilant against hepatitis A after infections doubled during the summer, with cases concentrated in central and eastern regions, officials said.
Lalida Periswiwatana, deputy government spokeswoman, said on 20 April that the Ministry of Public Health is closely monitoring the situation following surveillance data showing a steady rise in cases, roughly twice as high as during the same period last year. Most infections have been reported in central and eastern provinces, including Bangkok, Chonburi, Rayong and Chanthaburi, signalling a risk of clustered outbreaks during summer.
Hepatitis A is a communicable disease transmitted through contaminated food and water, typically via the faecal-oral route. It is commonly found in undercooked food, unsafe drinking water or non-standard ice. Early symptoms may be mild or unclear, including fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, jaundice and dark urine. Some infected individuals show no symptoms but can still spread the virus.
The average incubation period is about 28 days, making it difficult for many patients to identify the source of infection. The virus can also be transmitted before symptoms appear, complicating disease control, particularly in areas where food is sourced from multiple vendors.
The government has instructed public health agencies to step up proactive case finding, monitor for clusters and strictly inspect food and water safety to contain the situation early and prevent wider spread.
Members of the public are advised to take preventive measures by eating thoroughly cooked food, drinking clean water, avoiding questionable ice or food and washing hands before meals. Hepatitis A can be prevented by reducing risks at the source, and authorities are urging increased caution during the summer to help curb transmission and protect public health.
