Ecuador faces Hepatitis A outbreak as schools suspend classes

Ecuador is experiencing an active outbreak of Hepatitis A, with cases increasing by approximately 31% in recent weeks. According to data from the Ministry of Public Health, the country recorded 2,311 notified cases between epidemiological weeks 1 and 37 of 2026, representing a rate of 15 per 100,000 inhabitants.

In response to reported cases within its facilities, the Liceo Naval Quito has suspended in-person academic activities. For the Sierra region, the suspension runs from September 30 to October 4, 2026, while the Costa region regime will suspend classes from October 1 to October 4. The institution is implementing cleaning, disinfection, and sanitary control measures to protect students and staff.

Medical experts note that the virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted via the fecal-oral route through contaminated food or water. A significant challenge in controlling the spread is that infected individuals can transmit the virus approximately two weeks before symptoms, such as jaundice, nausea, or abdominal pain, appear.