Public Health Wales is offering free vaccinations to children aged 1–5 who either live in Barry or attend a local childcare or education setting, following a number of hepatitis A cases identified in the Town.
The move follows recent guidance issued to parents of primary school pupils in Barry, after health officials confirmed a small cluster of Hepatitis A cases across three households back in May. All cases involve the same strain, suggesting the virus may have been spreading locally.
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board announced the new vaccination programme on Monday, describing it as a precaution designed to protect young children and reduce further spread in the community.
Children are eligible if they either: live in Barry, or attend a school, nursery, childminder, playgroup or other childcare setting in Barry
Health officials emphasise that children only need to meet one of these criteria to receive the free vaccine.
The vaccination rollout builds on earlier measures taken by Public Health Wales, which has already contacted close contacts of confirmed cases and provided vaccines where needed. Parents have been reminded that they do not need to contact their GP unless seeking vaccination for international travel.
A multi‑agency team of health experts is continuing to investigate how the infection is spreading and to ensure appropriate action is taken. Public Health Wales has urged families to be extra vigilant with handwashing, noting that Hepatitis A is a viral infection affecting the liver that typically causes mild illness but can spread easily through close contact.
Health officials say the vaccination programme is a proactive step to safeguard children and limit disruption to families, schools and childcare settings.
Further information about Hepatitis A is available on the NHS 111 Wales website, or at Hepatitis A - Public Health Wales.

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