(ORDO NEWS) — Nearly 170 cases of acute hepatitis of unknown origin have been reported in children in 12 countries, with one known death, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
“As of April 21, 2022, there were at least 169 cases of acute hepatitis of unknown origin in 11 countries in the WHO European Region and one country in the Americas region,” the organization said in a statement.
Of a total of 114 cases of acute hepatitis in children, it is reported that in the UK, 13 cases in Spain, 12 in Israel, 9 in the US, and 6 in Denmark. Fewer than five cases have been identified in Ireland, four each in Italy and the Netherlands, two cases each in Norway and France, one each in Romania and Belgium.
According to WHO, the age of the sick is from 1 month to 16 years. Approximately 10% of patients required liver transplantation. WHO has information on at least one death.
The organization said that hepatitis viruses types A, B, C, E and D were not detected in any of these cases. Adenovirus was detected in at least 74 cases, and group F (type 41) adenovirus was found in 18 people during molecular testing. “SARS-CoV-2 was identified in 20 cases among those who were tested. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 and adenovirus co-infection was found in 19 people,” the organization said.
As noted by the WHO, general measures to prevent adenovirus and other common infections include regular handwashing and respiratory hygiene.
The organization advised WHO Member States to investigate and report cases of acute hepatitis in children. At the same time, WHO did not recommend imposing restrictions on travel or trade with Britain or any other country where cases of acute hepatitis were detected.
—
Online:
Contact us: [email protected]
Our Standards, Terms of Use: Standard Terms And Conditions.