The Public Health Agency (PHA) is working with counterparts in other jurisdictions on a UK-wide investigation into cases of hepatitis (liver inflammation) in children in which the common viruses which usually cause hepatitis (hepatitis A, B, C, D or E) have not been detected.
There are a small number of confirmed cases (fewer than five) in Northern Ireland currently. The agency is working with HSC partners to raise awareness among healthcare professionals, so that any children who may be affected can be identified early and the appropriate tests carried out.
One of a number of potential causes under investigation is that a group of viruses called adenoviruses may be causing the illnesses. However, other possible causes are also being actively investigated.
Adenoviruses are a family of common viruses that usually cause a range of mild illnesses and most people recover without complications. They can cause a range of symptoms, including colds, vomiting and diarrhoea. While they don’t typically cause hepatitis, it is a known rare complication of the virus.
Adenoviruses are commonly passed from person to person and by touching contaminated surfaces, as well as through the respiratory route. The most effective way to minimise the spread of Adenoviruses is to practice good hand and respiratory hygiene and supervise thorough handwashing in younger children.
Dr Gillian Armstrong, Interim Joint Head of Health Protection at the PHA, said: “We are working with public health colleagues in England, Scotland and Wales to investigate a wide range of possible factors which may be causing children to be admitted to hospital with liver inflammation known as hepatitis. One of the possible causes being investigated is that this is linked to adenovirus infection. However, other potential causes are also being thoroughly investigated. There is no link to the COVID-19 vaccine.
“Hand hygiene along with respiratory hygiene is the most important method of preventing and controlling the spread of infections that we are investigating. We are asking parents to:
· Encourage children to wash hands regularly;
· Make sure your child carries tissues at all times;
· Teach children to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing and to use a tissue which is disposed of quickly and carefully in a bin;
“We are also reminding parents to be aware of the symptoms of hepatitis. If you have a child who is showing signs of jaundice where the skin or whites of the eyes have a yellow tinge, then you should contact your GP or other healthcare professional.”
