Newcastle primary schools report two hepatitis A cases; risk to others low

Two confirmed hepatitis A cases have been reported at two Newcastle primary schools, with health officials reassuring families that the risk to others is low. Letters have been sent to parents at Benton Park Primary and Central Walker Primary. The UK Health Security Agency is working with both schools to implement necessary public health actions, including increased hygiene measures. Officials confirmed there is no evidence of transmission at either school, and both remain open. Hepatitis A is a viral liver infection spread through contaminated food, water, or poor handwashing. Symptoms include fever, jaundice, and dark urine, though most infected people recover fully.