Background - Viral Hepatitis A (HAV) remains a significant public health concern, particularly in developing regions. Preschool educational institutions (PEIs) are high-risk environments for the transmission of enteric infections due to the clustering of susceptible children and developing hygiene habits. Objective -  To evaluate the effectiveness of targeted hygienic education programs for children, staff, and parents in reducing the incidence of Hepatitis A and improving sanitary practices in preschool settings. Methods - A prospective comparative study was conducted over a 12-month period involving 500 children aged 3–7 years attending 10 preschool institutions. The institutions were divided into an intervention group (n=5, received intensive hygienic education) and a control group (n=5, standard curriculum). Data were collected using observation checklists, parental surveys, and epidemiological monitoring of HAV incidence. Results - The study revealed that the intervention group showed a significant improvement in handwashing technique (from 35% to 88% correct execution) compared to the control group. The incidence of HAV in the intervention group was 3.5 times lower than in the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, parental awareness regarding HAV transmission routes increased by 45% in the intervention group. Conclusion -  Non-specific prophylaxis through interactive hygienic education is a highly effective, low-cost strategy for preventing Hepatitis A in preschool clusters. It should be integrated as a mandatory component of the preschool curriculum alongside specific vaccination efforts.

Viral Hepatitis A, preschool children, hygienic education, prevention, public health, epidemiology, sanitation.

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