Health officials in Slovakia recorded 52 new cases of viral hepatitis A over the past week. The situation has been complicated not only by new outbreaks but also by strict criminal penalties for violating quarantine measures.
Nighttime and daytime safety measures, as well as compliance with health regulations, have become a focus of particular attention in the regions. STVR explains how the disease is spreading across the country and why ignoring isolation rules leads to court proceedings.
Where the Largest Outbreaks Are Occurring
The viral infection has affected nearly all regions of the country, with the exception of the Trenčín and Prešov regions. The most severe situation persists in the Banská Bystrica region, where one of the largest outbreaks is in the village of Čakanovce in the Lučenec district.
- The outbreak in Čakanovce: In this village with a population of approximately 1,200, health officials have already recorded 68 cases, nine of which were reported in the last week alone.
- Situation in Hospitals: There are 20 patients in the infectious diseases ward at the hospital in Lučenec. According to medical professionals, children and young adults from groups with low hygiene standards are the hardest hit.
- Medical supervision: All individuals who have come into contact with patients have been officially placed under 50 days of medical supervision.
Criminal Cases for Quarantine Violations in the Nitra Region
The Nitra Region has also been hit by a wave of the disease; since the beginning of September, 27 patients have been admitted to the infectious diseases clinic (primarily from the areas around Nové Zámky, Levice, and Nitra). The main problem is the behavior of certain patients who leave the hospital without authorization.
People who sign a discharge form and go home on their own initiative are required to remain in strict isolation. If they fail to comply with quarantine, they are violating the Slovak Criminal Code.
First court rulings and actual prison terms
The indiscipline of some patients who ignored home quarantine orders last year has led to actual criminal charges.
The District Court in Levice issued the first three criminal orders in cases involving the spread of a dangerous human disease. All three offenders received suspended prison sentences with a probationary period. Smaller outbreaks were simultaneously reported in the towns of Dvory nad Žitavou, Kozárovce, Máňa, and Nitrianske Hrnčiarovce, where doctors are conducting preventive screenings and monitoring close contacts.
