UPDATE: A significant outbreak of hepatitis A has been confirmed in Tamworth, Australia, as the 2026 Tamworth Country Music Festival (TCMF) kicks off today. The Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD) has reported six cases since November 2023, raising urgent health concerns for both residents and festival attendees.
Dr. David Durrheim, a public health physician with HNELHD, stated that the confirmed cases are alarming because they do not stem from international travel, which is typically how hepatitis A is spread. “It’s unusual,” he explained. “These cases represent a locally transmitted infection, posing a risk to the community.”
Half of the infected individuals are children, with the other half being adults. Children often exhibit milder symptoms, which can easily be mistaken for general illness, complicating the situation further. Dr. Durrheim emphasized the importance of vigilance, stating that while some infected individuals attended childcare centers, there is currently no evidence of transmission occurring there.
With the influx of thousands of visitors to Tamworth for the festival, Dr. Durrheim is calling for heightened awareness and precaution. “We urge residents, businesses, and festival-goers to practice excellent hand hygiene and food safety,” he said. The hepatitis A virus spreads through the faecal-oral route, primarily via contaminated food and drink, or through direct contact with an infected person.
Residents are reminded that alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not as effective against hepatitis A as soap and water. Dr. Durrheim advised, “People should wash their hands with soap and water for at least 10 seconds, especially after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food.”
Vaccination is also a critical measure, particularly for those at higher risk, such as individuals with chronic liver disease or those working in high-risk environments like childcare or food handling. “Vaccination is safe, effective, and strongly recommended,” Dr. Durrheim added.
HNELHD has alerted other state and territory health services, recognizing the potential for further spread as the festival attracts visitors from across the country. “Hand washing and safe food handling are key,” Dr. Durrheim reiterated, urging anyone experiencing symptoms—such as high fever, gastro issues, or jaundice—to seek medical attention immediately.
As the Tamworth Country Music Festival unfolds, the community stands on alert. The intersection of festive crowds and health risks highlights the need for proactive measures to ensure safety and well-being. Stay tuned for more updates as this developing situation unfolds.
