The World Health Organization has confirmed that eight more countries have reported cases of unexplained hepatitis in children over the past week, bringing the total to 20 nations. Globally, 228 children have been affected by the unusual liver disease, with an additional 50 suspected cases under investigation.
One death has been confirmed, with four more suspected, and 18 children have required liver transplants. Experts warn that the current figures may represent the 'tip of the iceberg', as many countries are only now enhancing surveillance for the rare condition.
Most cases have been detected in Europe, but others have emerged in the Americas, the Western Pacific, and Southeast Asia. Scientists are puzzled because none of the affected children tested positive for the usual hepatitis-causing viruses. Adenoviruses, which typically cause colds and stomach bugs, are suspected despite rarely leading to liver inflammation.
Investigations are exploring whether lockdowns may have weakened children's immunity to normally benign viruses, or if a mutated adenovirus or COVID-19 is involved. UK scientists have acknowledged it could take at least three months to determine the exact cause.
The WHO reported that adenovirus has been detected in at least 74 cases, and at least 20 children tested positive for COVID-19. British experts believe reduced social mixing during lockdowns may have left children more vulnerable to adenovirus, potentially leading to severe outcomes.
