WHO studies whether Covid has role in child hepatitis mystery

The WHO refers to the outbreak of severe liver inflammations as acute hepatitis of unknown origin among young children.

The WHO said Tuesday that 348 probable cases of hepatitis of unknown origin had been identified, as studies into the potential role of adenovirus and Covid-19 infection gather pace.

The World Health Organization said the leading hypotheses remain those involving adenovirus.

Cases have been reported in 20 countries, with 70 additional cases from a further 13 countries which are pending classification as tests await completion.

Only six countries are reporting more than five cases, with more than 160 being reported in Britain.