Parents urged to act after hepatitis A infection cluster in seaside town

Parents in a seaside town have been urged to ensure children wash their hands thoroughly, particularly after using the bathroom, following a hepatitis A outbreak.

A small number of cases have been identified across three households in Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, with officials warning the infection may be spreading locally.

Hepatitis A is a liver infection that can spread via the poo of an infected person. Most people who become ill will get better within a few months.

Public Health Wales said it had written to families of primary school pupils, asking them to be "vigilant" to help prevent further cases.It said thorough handwashing remains the most effective way to stop the virus spreading.

Health officials are working with local parents to understand how the infection is being passed on, and to ensure the appropriate measures are in place.

As a precaution, vaccinations have been offered to people identified as close contacts of confirmed cases.

Officials said anyone who needs a vaccine has already been contacted.

Parents and carers are being reminded to encourage good hygiene, particularly among younger children, who may not show symptoms but can still pass the infection on.

Susan Mably, consultant in Health Protection for Public Health Wales, said: "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."

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Joint/muscle pain
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Jaundice
• Dark urine
• Pale stool
• Abdominal pain

According to Public Health Wales, hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver and is usually spread through contaminated food and drink.

Most cases are mild and people typically recover within a few months with no long-term health problems.

Around 20 cases of hepatitis A are reported in Wales each year, often linked to travel to countries where the virus is more common.

People are advised to contact their GP or NHS 111 Wales if they or their child feel unwell.