Hepatitis A cases confirmed at primary schools in Newcastle and Aberdeen

Hepatitis A cases have been confirmed at primary schools in Newcastle and Aberdeen, prompting public health officials to issue warnings to families and offer vaccinations to close contacts.

In Newcastle, two cases of the viral infection have been reported among pupils at Benton Park Primary and Central Walker Church of England Primary School. Meanwhile, in Aberdeen, authorities have confirmed "more than one" case at Braehead Primary School in the Bridge of Don area.

Health officials in both cities have moved quickly to reassure parents that the risk of wider transmission is low. Investigations suggest that none of the infected pupils contracted the virus inside their schools.

No evidence of school spread

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is working with both Newcastle schools to ensure hygiene measures are stepped up. Parents at both sites have received letters containing advice on what symptoms to watch out for.

Jonathan Lawler, a consultant in health protection at UKHSA North East, said the agency is working with partners to carry out all necessary public health actions. He emphasised that the risk to the wider public, other pupils, and staff remains low, with no evidence that the illness has been transmitted within either Newcastle school.

Newcastle City Council declined to comment on the situation, directing enquiries to the public health team. Both schools remain open and are advising families on strict hand hygiene.

In Aberdeen, NHS Grampian's health protection team has stepped in to offer Hepatitis A vaccinations to potential close contacts of the infected individuals as a precautionary measure.

Dr William Moore, a consultant in public health medicine at NHS Grampian, confirmed that the cases in the Bridge of Don area did not acquire the infection within either the school or an associated childcare setting.

"There is currently no information to suggest spread of the infection within either setting," Dr Moore said, adding that parents are being contacted directly with advice. Aberdeen City Council also confirmed it is working alongside the health board to support those affected.

How the virus spreads and symptoms to watch for

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. It is passed on through the faeces of an infected person, often when someone accidentally contaminates food, water, or surfaces like toilets and towels due to poor handwashing.

According to public health guidance, the most effective way to prevent the virus from spreading is thorough handwashing, particularly after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food.

While the infection is not usually serious and most people make a full recovery within a couple of months, young children who contract it often show no symptoms at all. When symptoms do appear—usually around four weeks after exposure—they can include:

• Fever and feeling generally unwell
• Tummy ache, joint pain, or muscle pain
• Loss of appetite
• Dark urine and pale stools
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes)

Health officials advise any parents who notice these symptoms in their children to contact their GP or NHS services for advice.