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Health officials around the world are continuing to investigate a sudden surge in cases of hepatitis, or liver inflammation, among young children. Several possible causes are being looked at, but it looks likely that a common virus - an adenovirus - has a role to play.

Virologist William Irving of Nottingham University looks at the various theories. He explains that there are lots of different types of adenovirus, with one in particular, 41, being detected in a number of children with hepatitis who were tested, which usually causes vomiting and diarrhoea. He says there has been been an increase in circulation of adenoviruses, as people come out of lockdown, and some wonder if the lack of exposure to viruses by young children at this stage in their lives (many of the patients are aged 3-6 years), for the two years of restrictive living, could have affected their immune systems. However, he says the research is ongoing and no clear reason for the cases has been confirmed.

Photo: A young child is examined by a doctor Credit: Getty Images