Parents are being urged to look out for signs of hepatitis after 60 cases were detected in children in England.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says it has recently detected higher than usual rates of liver inflammation (hepatitis) in children. As well as the 60 cases, found in youngsters aged under 10 in England, there were a further 11 in Scotland.
Hepatitis is a condition that affects the liver and may occur for a number of reasons, including several viral infections common in children. However, in the cases under investigation the common viruses that cause hepatitis have not been detected.
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UKHSA says it is working with the NHS and public health colleagues across the UK to investigate the potential cause.
Dr Meera Chand, director of clinical and emerging infections, said: "Investigations for a wide range of potential causes are under way, including any possible links to infectious diseases.
"We are working with partners to raise awareness among healthcare professionals, so that any further children who may be affected can be identified early and the appropriate tests carried out. This will also help us to build a better picture of what may be causing the cases.
"We are also reminding parents to be aware of the symptoms of jaundice – including skin with a yellow tinge which is most easily seen in the whites of the eyes – and to contact a healthcare professional if they have concerns."
Symptoms of hepatitis to look out for
- dark urine
- pale, grey-coloured poo
- itchy skin
- yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice)
- muscle and joint pain
- a high temperature
- feeling and being sick
- feeling unusually tired all the time
- loss of appetite
- tummy pain
