"Some young children who are infected may not show any symptoms but can spread the infection to others, who can then become unwell. Parents and carers should help and remind young children to wash their hands properly."
"Hepatitis A is a viral infection mostly affecting the liver that is spread by faecal-oral contact and contaminated food and water. It can cause fever, jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain and nausea, and takes two to six months to clear up, with no lasting adverse effects."
"The UK records approximately 400 cases of hepatitis A a year, although numbers are increasing, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), with more than 800 recorded in 2024."
A hepatitis A outbreak has been identified in Barry, south Wales, with at least three households confirmed infected. The viral liver infection spreads through faecal-oral contact and contaminated food and water, causing fever, jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and nausea. Symptoms typically resolve within two to six months without lasting effects. Infected individuals remain contagious for about a week after symptoms appear. Public Health Wales has urged parents and carers to ensure proper hand-washing, particularly after toilet use, nappy changes, and before food preparation. Vaccinations have been offered to close contacts as a precaution. Young children may carry the infection asymptomatically while remaining contagious to others. UK cases have increased significantly, with over 800 recorded in 2024 compared to approximately 400 annually.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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