The Department of Health is closely monitoring the recent increase in cases of acute hepatitis of undetermined origin in children under 16, mainly 2-5 year olds, in Europe, the UK and America.
Many of the cases reported gastrointestinal symptoms mainly abdominal pain, diarrhoea, vomiting and often followed by the onset of jaundice. The majority of cases did not develop fever.
International health agencies (WHO, ECDC, CDC) are working together to identify the causative agent, and the data so far point to a specific type of adenovirus (type 41) as the predominant cause. At the same time investigations are ongoing to exclude other causative agents or possible cofactors. It is noted that the common hepatitis viruses (A to E) were not detected. Cases are being investigated since October 2021 and no association of these cases as a side effect against the vaccine COVID-19 is confirmed as the vast majority of children have no history of vaccination.
In view of the above, and based on the definition established by the ECDC and communicated in recent days, the Ministry of Health informs of the identification of two cases of acute hepatitis of undetermined etiology meeting the definition in children aged 5 and 4 years, who became ill in November 2021 and March 2022 respectively.
If parents notice symptoms in children (generalized malaise, dark-colored urine, stool discoloration and jaundice, yellowish skin and eyes), they are urged to contact their physician.
It is recommended that measures such as hand hygiene, avoiding contact with the nose, eyes, mouth and covering the nose and mouth or covering the inside of the elbow when coughing or sneezing, are followed. In addition, staying at home in case of symptoms and avoiding contact with a person with symptoms is recommended.
The Ministry of Health continues to monitor developments in relation to cases of acute hepatitis and in close collaboration with clinicians is recording any relevant cases.
(AF)
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