Two cases of hepatitis A have been identified among pupils at two Newcastle primary schools. Benton Park Primary and Central Walker Primary have both written to families, providing advice and guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Risk to public remains low
Health officials confirmed that the risk to the general public, fellow pupils and staff remains low. The UKHSA is collaborating with both schools to ensure all necessary public health measures are implemented. Officials also confirmed there is currently no evidence of the illness being transmitted within either school.
Advice from health protection experts
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 that has been contaminated with the virus and also can be spread from person to person."
Lawler added: "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."
Symptoms and current status
Symptoms include fever, stomach pain, general malaise, followed by dark urine, pale stools and jaundice affecting the eyes and skin. The majority of those who contract hepatitis A recover completely.
Representatives from each school have not yet responded, while Newcastle City Council has declined to comment, referring enquiries to the public health team. It is understood that the schools remain operational, with guidance being provided, particularly regarding hand hygiene practices.
