Health officials have confirmed that a hepatitis A outbreak in Barry remains active, with fresh advice issued to curb further transmission. The outbreak was first identified in May, when Public Health Wales urged parents and carers of children at Barry primary schools to practice thorough hand hygiene to reduce infection risk.
Hepatitis A is a viral infection affecting the liver, typically spread through close contact with an infected person or via contaminated food or water. Most infected individuals recover fully without long-term complications.
Ongoing Management and Safety Assurance
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board has confirmed the outbreak continues, with Public Health Wales collaborating with partners on control measures. Officials stress that Barry remains safe to visit and that there is no elevated risk for travellers to the town.
Susan Mably, consultant in public health at Public Health Wales, stated: "The hepatitis A outbreak in Barry is ongoing. Public Health Wales is continuing to work as part of the outbreak control team to undertake all routine public health measures, including tracing the contacts of confirmed cases and offering advice, support and vaccination where appropriate."
Prevention and Vaccination
Hand hygiene is cited as a key preventive measure. People should wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food. Anyone contacted by health authorities and offered vaccination is strongly encouraged to accept, as it provides effective protection and helps control the outbreak.
