HEPATITIS IN TRAVELERS - EPIDEMIOLOGY AND PREVENTION

Viral hepatitis is one of the commonest illnesses to afflict traveller s. Hepatitis A is the commonest infection. It is particularly common i n travellers from low incidence countries such as those of northern Eu rope, in those travelling to the high incidence countries of the devel oping world and in those staying abroad for long periods. Hepatitis B is less common and particularly affects those who engage in sexual act ivity abroad or who are exposed occupationally. Other forms of viral h epatitis appear rare although epidemiological data is sparse. Hepatiti s A, B and yellow fever can be prevented through vaccination of the ap propriate groups of travellers.