A claim spread by conspiracy site The Expose claims that a sudden increase of hepatitis cases in children across the world was caused by COVID-19 vaccines.
Instead, initial investigations into the hepatitis outbreak are pointing to adenovirus as a possible cause. Adenoviruses are a group of viruses that can cause a variety of illnesses such as bronchitis, pneumonia, sore throat, and inflammation of the stomach.
Dr. Meera Chand, Director of Clinical and Emerging Infections at UKHSA, said in a statement emailed to:"Information gathered through our investigations increasingly suggests that this rise in sudden onset hepatitis in children is linked to adenovirus infection. However, we are thoroughly investigating other potential causes."
"Normal hygiene measures such as thorough handwashing and good thorough respiratory hygiene, help to reduce the spread of many common infections, including adenovirus," Chand said. The WHO has stated that while adenovirus is one likely underlying cause,"it does not fully explain the severity of the clinical picture."