NAPLES. An increase in hepatitis A cases is causing growing concern in southern Italy. In Naples, the city is now taking action and banning the consumption of raw seafood in restaurants.
As Bild reported on March 25, 2026, more than 150 hepatitis A cases have already been registered in the Campania region since the beginning of the year. 84 of these are said to be in Naples alone. According to the report, Capri and the Amalfi Coast are also particularly affected.
Raw mussels and other seafood are particularly suspected. Positive results have already been found several times in samples. Doctors also reported an unusually high number of severe cases, which is why developments in Naples and the surrounding area are being monitored particularly closely.
City reacts with ban
As early as March 19, 2026, the city of Naples issued a mayoral ordinance to protect public health. It prohibits the serving and consumption of raw seafood in restaurants, snack bars and other establishments.
The arrangement goes further. The population is also advised not to eat raw seafood in their private lives for the time being. The measure applies pending new assessments from the health authority ASL Napoli 1 Centro. Violations can result in fines of between 2,000 and 20,000 euros, and in the event of repeat violations, operational suspensions.
What’s important now
For consumers, this means above all: only eat mussels, oysters and similar products when they are fully cooked. Hepatitis A is usually transmitted through contaminated food or water. Typical symptoms include nausea, fever, abdominal pain and jaundice.
Italy remains a popular travel destination for holidaymakers in the region. However, special caution is currently advised when eating, especially with raw seafood in coastal towns around Naples.
