WHO warns of concern about hepatitis in children in Europe

There are cases in the United Kingdom, Spain and Ireland; rule out relationship with vaccines

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that it is closely monitoring the dozens of cases of hepatitis of unknown origin in minors in the United Kingdom, Spain and Ireland, some requiring a liver transplant.

The United Kingdom reported 10 cases of severe hepatitis in Scotland on April 5 , a balance that rose to 74 three days later, according to a statement from the WHO, which expects new cases to come to light in the coming days.

Some of those affected had to be transferred to specialized liver disease services, and six minors required a transplant, the agency detailed.

In addition, just under five cases (possible or confirmed) were reported in Ireland and three in Spain, the WHO explained. So far no deaths have been reported.

This hepatitis mainly affects children under 10 years of age and is manifested by symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin), diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

The usual hepatitis viruses (A and E) did not appear in the affected children. The British health authorities recently indicated that they were examining the hypothesis of one type of virus: adenovirus, and other causes such as COVID-19 , other infections or even environmental factors.

Instead, they rule out any link to the coronavirus vaccine, since none of the cases in the UK received it.

“Member states are strongly encouraged to identify, investigate and report potential cases that meet the case definition,” the agency said.

“WHO does not recommend any restrictions on travel and/or trade with the UK, or any other country where cases are identified, based on currently available information.”

Just yesterday, CNN reported that the Alabama Department of Public Health has been investigating an increase in hepatitis in young children.

AFP