Parents in a seaside town are being urged to be vigilant with their children's handwashing following a hepatitis A outbreak. Public Health Wales has identified a small number of cases of the same strain in three separate households in Barry, South Wales.
Outbreak Details
The health body said it is working with the local health board and council to investigate the cases. Information about the strain suggests the infection may be spreading locally. Those affected are receiving appropriate care and are recovering well. As a precaution, vaccination has been offered to close contacts of those infected.
Health Advice for Parents
Susan Mably, consultant in health protection for Public Health Wales, stated: “We are now writing to parents who have children in primary schools in Barry to ask them to be vigilant with their children’s handwashing to prevent further spread of infection. The best way to prevent the spread of hepatitis A is to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. This is important after using the toilet, changing nappies and before preparing or eating food.”
Some young children infected may not show symptoms but can spread the infection. Parents and carers should help and remind children to wash hands properly. If symptoms such as fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or yellow skin or eyes occur, contact a GP or NHS 111 Wales.
Hepatitis A is a viral infection affecting the liver, typically mild. The NHS notes that hepatitis A vaccines are not routinely offered in the UK due to low risk.
