The number of hepatitis cases in children has reached nearly 200 as health bosses urged parents to continue to look out for symptoms.
Latest figures from the UK Heath Security Agency (UKHSA), looking at data up to May 16, show the total number of UK cases has risen to 197. Of those, 11 youngsters have received a liver transplant. However, there have been no deaths in the UK.
Investigations continue to suggest a link with adenovirus. This is a common virus that usually causes mild illnesses including stomach upsets and colds. Among the 197 cases, adenovirus was found in 116.
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Experts further say that SARS-CoV-2 has been detected in 15% of UK patients with available results, reflecting testing on or around the time of admission.
There is no evidence of any link to the Covid vaccine. The majority of children affected are under five and too young to have received the jab.
In addition, following further investigation, no evidence was found linking dog ownership and cases of hepatitis in children.
Health officials say that standard hygiene measures, including covering your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze, thorough handwashing and making sure children wash their hands properly, are vital in reducing the spread of many common infections, including adenovirus.
Dr Renu Bindra, senior medical advisor at UKHSA, said: "It's important that parents know the likelihood of their child developing hepatitis is extremely low. However, we continue to remind everyone to be alert to the signs of hepatitis – particularly jaundice, look for a yellow tinge in the whites of the eyes – and contact your doctor if you are concerned.
"Our investigations continue to suggest that there is an association with adenovirus infection, but investigations continue to unpick the exact reason for the rise in cases."
Hepatitis symptoms include:
- yellowing of the white part of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
- dark urine
- pale, grey-coloured faeces (poo)
- itchy skin
- muscle and joint pain
- a high temperature
- feeling and being sick
- feeling unusually tired all the time
- loss of appetite
- tummy pain
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