Two cases of Hepatitis A have been confirmed among primary school pupils in Newcastle, prompting health officials to issue a warning to parents. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported the two cases of the contagious infection.
The affected schools are Benton Park Primary and Central Walker Primary, understood to be near the city centre. Both schools have sent letters to families containing advice and guidance from the UKHSA.
Low risk to public
Health bosses have confirmed that the risk to the public, other pupils, and teachers is low. They said they are working closely with the schools to ensure all necessary public health actions are taken.
Public health bosses also confirmed that there is no evidence of the illness being transmitted at either school at present.
UKHSA response
Jonathan Lawler, consultant in health protection at UKHSA North East, said: "We are working with both schools and other relevant partners to ensure all necessary public health actions are carried out."
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver. The virus is usually acquired by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the virus and can also be spread from person to person.
Symptoms and hygiene measures
"Hepatitis A is present in the faeces (poo) of an infected person and can be passed to others if the ill person accidentally contaminates another person, food, water or the bathroom, toilet or towels, as a result of poor hand washing. The infection can then be picked up on other people's hands and transferred to their mouth."
The schools are working with partners and following health protection advice to increase hygiene measures to prevent transmission. Signs and symptoms include fever, tummy ache, feeling unwell, which then develops into dark urine, pale stools, and jaundice of the eyes and skin. Most people who contract Hepatitis A make a full recovery.
It is understood that both schools remain open.
