Is there an increase in pediatric hepatitis of unknown cause in the US?
There was no increase in pediatric hepatitis of unknown cause or adenovirus trends in US children compared to pre-pandemic levels 3. While there was a notable rise in severe cases globally during the early pandemic, data from the United States shows these numbers have not risen above historical baselines 3.
What the research says
A specific report found that the incidence of severe acute hepatitis of unknown origin in US children did not increase compared to levels before the COVID-19 pandemic 3. This finding applies to both cases of unknown cause and trends in adenovirus infections 3.
Globally, health agencies did alert the World Health Organization to an increased incidence of severe acute hepatitis in young children in 2022, with cases reported in 37 countries 4. However, this global alert does not reflect the situation in the United States, where the data shows stability 3.
One study described a case series of children with severe hepatitis and adenovirus infection in Alabama, but this does not represent a nationwide surge 2. The overall picture for the US is that the severe cases seen internationally have not translated into an increased trend for American children 3.
What to ask your doctor
- Have you seen any recent changes in the rate of pediatric hepatitis in our local area?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Infectious Disease and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.