The number of viral hepatitis A cases in the Republic of Moldova has doubled from the beginning of the year through October 12, 2026, compared with the same period last year. The National Agency for Public Health (ANSP) has reported 10 cases, including four in children and six in adults. An outbreak involving four people was recorded in the village of Coșernița, Florești district.
According to the ANSP, the highest numbers of infections were reported in Chișinău municipality and Florești district, with four cases each. Two other cases were recorded in Cimișlia and Sîngerei districts, one in each.
In terms of when the cases were reported, one occurred in July, four in September and five in October. An outbreak involving four infected people was identified in Coșernița, Florești district, including three children and one adult.
How Hepatitis A Is Transmitted
Viral hepatitis A is an infectious liver disease transmitted primarily through the consumption of contaminated water or food and through direct contact with an infected person. The risk of transmission increases in conditions of inadequate hygiene and sanitation, as well as when water from unsafe sources is consumed.
According to the ANSP, the average incubation period is approximately 35 days. Symptoms include fatigue, fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and abdominal pain. Other signs may include dark urine, pale stools, and yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. In young children, the infection may develop without obvious symptoms.
Although hepatitis A does not cause chronic infection, it can lead to severe complications in rare cases. People experiencing symptoms are urged to seek medical attention.
ANSP Recommends Following Hygiene Rules
To prevent infections, specialists recommend washing hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food. The public is also advised to drink water from safe sources, thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables, cook food properly, and maintain cleanliness in food preparation and serving areas.
If there are concerns about water quality, the ANSP recommends using bottled or boiled water. Local public authorities are urged to ensure proper sanitation in communities, protect drinking water sources, and maintain adequate hygiene conditions in educational institutions and other public spaces.
People who have been in direct contact with someone diagnosed with hepatitis A are also advised to seek medical guidance as soon as possible.
According to the World Health Organization’s classification, the Republic of Moldova falls within the intermediate-endemicity zone for this infection. The disease follows a cyclical pattern, with increases in the number of cases at intervals of approximately 8–10 years. Cases are more frequent between October and December.