Pediatr. praxi. 2025;26(5):284-288 | DOI: 10.36290/ped.2025.057

Viral hepatitis with emphasis on hepatitis A in the paediatric population

prof. RNDr. Vanda Boštíková, Ph.D., Ing. Hana Střítecká, Ph.D.

Ústav preventivního lékařství, Lékařská fakulta UK v Hradci Králové

Viral hepatitis in children represents a heterogeneous group of diseases caused by different hepatotropic viruses, which differ in the mode of transmission, clinical picture, as well as the risk of possible transition to the chronic stage. Hepatitis A is a very serious public health problem, particularly in the paediatric population. Although this infection does not cause chronic liver disease, it is associated with significant morbidity. In general, the severity of the disease is inversely proportional to the age of the child. In rare cases, fulminant hepatitis may occur and is associated with high mortality. Universal vaccination of children is the most effective method of prevention. Following the introduction of an effective vaccine, the incidence of infection in the United States has decreased by more than 90 %. However, the number of cases is now on the rise again due to large outbreaks in the unvaccinated population. Viral hepatitis in children is an ongoing topic in pediatric practice. Vaccination, education and interdisciplinary collaboration remain the mainstays of effective care for these patients.

Keywords: child population, viral hepatitis, vaccination, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepa­titis C, hepatitis D, hepatitis E, nutrition.

Accepted: October 20, 2025; Published: October 30, 2025  Show citation