Hepatitis A outbreak associated with consumption of dates, England and Wales, January 2021 to April 2021

We report a national hepatitis A virus (HAV) outbreak linked to the consumption of Medjool dates. Twentynine cases of three genetically related sequences have been identified. Epidemiological investigations identified a suspected product (adjusted odds ratio: 47.36; 95% confidence interval: 1.79-1,256.07; p = 0.021). Microbiological testing has confirmed the presence of HAV on dates recovered from two cases and the product has been recalled. Date consumption is currently likely to be increased in connection with Ramadan, with potential ongoing contamination risk.

Automated summary

A national outbreak of hepatitis A virus linked to the consumption of Medjool dates has been reported, with 29 cases of three genetically related sequences identified. Epidemiological investigation pointed to a suspected product with a significant risk factor, leading to its recall. With Ramadan approaching, there is a potential ongoing contamination risk as date consumption is expected to increase.