We can’t help but worry when we learn of a child diagnosed with acute hepatitis. It sounds impossible because we rarely know of a liver disease seen in children. To make matters worse, an infant recently got diagnosed with the mentioned disease without a known cause.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) closely investigates acute hepatitis of a 10-month-old baby boy in Singapore. The infant was diagnosed with the mentioned rare disease with an unknown cause.
In this article, you’ll read:
- MOH Investigates the Case of Acute Hepatitis in a 10-Year-Old Baby Boy
- Things You Should Know About Acute Hepatitis
MOH Investigates the Case of Acute Hepatitis in a 10-Year-Old Baby Boy
Image source: iStock
Doctors discovered that a 10-year-old baby boy in Singapore suffers from acute hepatitis with an unknown cause. This rare case refers to the inflammation of the liver.
They first brought the child to KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital Emergency Department. While there, the doctors confined the baby for further investigation of his condition.
At present, the Ministry of Health (MOH) is investigating the case. They aim to determine if the case relates to a similar recent global outbreak.
“The case and his household contacts are currently well,” said MOH. “Investigations are ongoing to determine if the case has a similar presentation to the cases of acute hepatitis of unknown cause reported internationally and by the World Health Organization.”
Additionally, the MOH also said that the infant contracted COVID-19 in December last year. However, authorities found no evidence that proves the relation of the diagnosis to the contagious virus.
“Laboratory testing has determined the case to be negative for the common viruses that cause hepatitis,” said the spokesman.
Because of this, MOH advised all medical practitioners vigilantly monitor young children. Medical health practitioners must closely evaluate children presenting signs and symptoms of hepatitis. This serves as an essential step because the recent case occurred without a known cause.
Acute Hepatitis With Unknown Cause
MOH said that they discovered more than 200 suspected and probable cases of acute hepatitis in children. Those with unknown causes among children spanned 17 countries. Some reports came from Britain, Spain, the United States, Canada, and Japan.
Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver. According to experts, the possible cause is viral infections, alcohol use, toxins, medications, and certain medical conditions.
On the other hand, no one knows the exact cause of acute hepatitis in children. MOH said that the initial investigations suggest that cases may be related to adenovirus infection.
On the other hand, Adenovirus is a common virus that typically causes respiratory or gastrointestinal illness. However, it is not commonly known to cause hepatitis in healthy children.
Disease Outbreak News – WHO
Image source: iStock
On the 15th of April, the World Health Organisation (WHO) updated news of their investigation on the rare case.
Its risk assessment stressed the significance of doing a thorough examination into any unexpected substantial rise in acute hepatitis cases. They also predicted a rise in cases before they determine the true cause.
At present, WHO officials do not recommend any restriction on travel and trade with other countries with similar cases.
As of April 21, 2022, WHO recorded about 169 cases of acute hepatitis of unknown origin. The data comes as health officials throughout the world explore an unexplained rise in severe hepatitis cases among young children.
Things You Should Know About Acute Hepatitis
Image source: iStock
The MOH warns parents about the cases of acute hepatitis among children. They also emphasise the necessity of being aware of hepatitis symptoms and when to seek medical help.
Symptoms of Acute Hepatitis
Parents, here are the symptoms of acute hepatitis you should watch out for:
- Dark urine
- Pale, grey coloured faeces
- Jaundice (yellowing of eyes)
- Itchy skin
- Muscle or joint pain
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting or abdominal pain
- Lethargy or loss of appetite
According to the Ministry of Health,
“Normal hygiene measures such as hand-washing and good respiratory hygiene help to reduce the spread of many common infections.”
MOH also advises parents to keep kids at home, especially when unwell. They should avoid going to schools and other public places until the symptoms are no longer present. Aside from that, they must also have a proper assessment that they are healthy enough to return to school.
What Parents Should Know
Parents must be on high alert anytime an illness circulate that can lead to severe consequences in children.
“With time and attention to meeting the child’s needs, recovery is common,” says Fischer of Children’s Mercy. “The liver is capable of complete healing, and we would not expect long-term effects after recovery.”
Keep in mind that parents need to be aware of the symptoms. They must immediately contact their primary care provider with questions and concerns.
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