Epidemiological characteristics of hepatitis A in Serbian areas of Kosovo and Metohia

Abstract

Hepatitis A is an acute viral disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV) .In many areas of the world represents a significant epidemiological problem, and the infection is usually transmitted by contact, rarely contaminated water and food. The main objective of the study was to identify the most important epidemiological characteristics of hepatitis A in Serbian areas of Kosovo and Metohija. We used the data of reporting of infectious diseases, reports on infectious diseases (seven-day, month, year) of the Department of Public Health Pristina in Kosovska Mitrovica. In our research we used epidemiological Studies of cross-section (cross-sectional). Between 2003-2015. in Kosovo and Metohija (Serbian middle) registered 223 cases of hepatitis A. The average incidence in the reporting period was 11.03 / 10,0000. Analysis of age distribution revealed that the most common incidence in people aged 15-19 years, and the rarest people aged 50-59 years. Hepatitis A occurs throughout the year, showing seasonal variations. Trend of incidence shows a negative trend with a reduction in the number of cases in the territory of Kosovo and Metohija. Based on the results of our study we can conclude that hepatitis A is an important public health and socioeconomic problem. In order to prevent hepatitis A, it is important to continue to improve hygiene and sanitary conditions of life as the best general preventive measures.

Keywords

• hepatitis A
• epidemiological characteristics
• Kosovo and Metohija