Hepatitis A outbreak in the Netherlands

The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) has reported a hepatitis A outbreak caused by frozen blueberries. The number of cases is 24 (13 men and 11 women), with infected persons aged between 16 and 77. Eight of them required hospitalization. Most cases involved purchasing and consuming frozen blueberries from retailer Albert Heijn. However, the causes of one infection are still unclear. In January, Albert Heijn issued a warning about frozen blueberry bags that may be contaminated with hepatitis A. They were produced in Poland and have expiration dates up to April 24, 2026. How the berries were contaminated is still unknown. The retailer and the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) called on people not to eat the product. RIVM said it does not expect new cases because the incubation period of potential infections is now over. Berries were also recalled in nearby Belgium after potentially related illnesses were reported.
Hepatitis A is a viral infection of the liver. It is spread by consuming contaminated food or water or touching contaminated hands or objects. The incubation period is up to 50 days, with an average of 28 days. Symptoms are nausea, fever, loss of appetite, stomach pain, dark urine, pale stools, and jaundice. Infected persons are contagious for two weeks before symptoms appear and one week after they manifest. Good hygiene practices like handwashing are key to preventing transmission.