Community
The Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance (MSPAS) issued an epidemiological alert in the face of the sustained increase in cases of hepatitis A in 2025, compared to the same period of the previous year.
The Ministry of Health alert to increase hepatitis A cases (photo free press: direct impact)
Until April 15, Guatemala has registered 1,395 cases of hepatitis A, compared to 982 of the previous year, which represents a 42%rise. The national accumulated rate rose from 5.50 to 7.72 per 100,000 inhabitants, according to official data from the epidemiological area of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance (MSPAS).
The report stands out to Zacapa as the department with the greatest increase, from 15 to 169 cases, with a rate of 60.10. They are followed by Baja Verapaz, Chimaltenango, Quiché, Petén and Guatemala, where possible localized shoots or deficiencies in sanitation systems are identified.
Hepatitis A, caused by a fecal-oral transmission virus, is propagated mainly through contaminated water or food consumption, or by close contact with infected people. The disease usually arises in contexts of low health and hygiene.
MSPAS recommends reinforcing preventive measures such as hand washing, drinking water consumption and vaccination in high -risk areas. In addition, he urges the population to seek immediate medical attention to symptoms such as fever, discomfort, jaundice or changes in urine color.
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