An outbreak of hepatitis A in Roma populations living in three prefectures in Greece

Abstract

SUMMARYAn outbreak of hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection affected Roma populations living in three prefectures of northeastern Greece. Between July and November 2007, 124 cases were reported. We carried out investigations to characterize the pathogen, to identify the source of infection and the route of transmission. Using the RT–PCR technique, HAV strains of the same genotype were detected in all sera from a subset of patients with acute disease. These showed more than 99·8% identity, suggesting a common source. A questionnaire was also completed to collect clinical and epidemiological information. The outbreak affected mainly Roma children aged <10 years. An inspection of Roma settlements showed that poor sanitary conditions were associated with the HAV outbreak.