Holidaymakers travelling to five popular European destinations could be at risk of a deadly virus. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has warned of a “multi-country outbreak” of hepatitis A affecting 2,000 people and leaving nine dead. Hepatitis A is an infection of the liver caused by a virus that spreads in faeces and can cause “serious illness and death”,according to the ECDC. Symptoms can include a fever, jaundice, dark urine and itchy skin. A “significant increase” in cases of the virus have been reported in five popular European holiday destinations in Austria, Czechia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Portugal between January and May 2025. Ole Heuer, Head of Unit for One Health Related Diseases at ECDC, said: “This outbreak reminds us that hepatitis A can cause serious illness and death, especially among people with limited access to healthcare and basic hygiene. “We need to strengthen outreach, provide access to vaccination in groups more likely to be exposed, and ensure basic sanitation, especially in response to the increase in cases. More than health measures, they are equity measures.” Slovakia, home to scenic holiday destinations, has reported 880 cases of the virus as of June 18, according to Travel Health Pro, supported by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Hungary has seen 641 suspected infections, while the Czech Republic has recorded 600 confirmed cases and six deaths . Austria, with 87 confirmed cases, has also recorded three deaths. Portugal, a widely popular holiday destination for Brits, has also reported 122 hepatitis A cases associated with sexual contact among men who have sex with men. The outbreak is mainly affecting the north and the Lisbon and Tagus Valley regions. Brits have been urged to get vaccinated against the infection if they are travelling to holiday hotspots affected by outbreaks. In the UK, hepatitis A vaccination isn鈥檛 routinely offered since the infection is rare. However, the NHS recommends that those visiting more high risk countries, such as parts of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Central and South America, do get vaccinated. According to Travel Health Pro, certain travellers have a higher risk of contracting hepatitis A, including: The ECDC says the rise in infections reported across Europe is primarily affecting adults experiencing homelessness, people who use or inject drugs, and those living in poor sanitary conditions who have limited access to healthcare.