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Barry Hepatitis A: Free Vaccines Offered to Young Children
17 Aug
Summary
- Hepatitis A outbreak confirmed in Barry with 11 cases since December 2025.
- Free Hepatitis A vaccines are available for children aged five and under.
- Vaccinations are scheduled at Barry Hospital from August 18-22, 2026.
Parents and carers in Barry are encouraged to vaccinate children five years old and younger against Hepatitis A. This initiative follows an outbreak in the Vale of Glamorgan town, which has recorded 11 confirmed cases since December 2025. Public Health Wales has noted the virus spreading within the community, though a specific source has not been identified. Vaccinating young children is deemed crucial as they can carry Hepatitis A without symptoms, facilitating its transmission.
The free vaccination clinics will operate at Barry Hospital from Tuesday, August 18, to Saturday, August 22, 2026. Dr. Chris Williams, a consultant epidemiologist at Public Health Wales, emphasized the importance of immunizing this age group to curb the outbreak. Children eligible for the vaccine reside in Barry or attend a childcare facility in the town. Those selected will receive a direct invitation via letter or text from the Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.
