Hepatitis Update: it is probably not COVID related.

I just wanted to offer a quick update on the mysterious Hepatitis outbreak. We have now seen over 200 cases globally with 18 countries reporting cases.

Epidemiologists have ruled out common toxins, contaminated food, and household products as culprits. And while COVID is not 100% ruled out, it is not considered "unlikely." Adenovirus 41 is still the leading suspect although that has not yet been proven (some children are not testing positive for it, so it could be found to be a contributor but not the cause - we just don't know yet). And even if it is adenovirus 41, the question becomes why are children suddenly so susceptible to it?

Alabama has now see as many cases in a month as they would expect to see in a year. Cases range from serious to severe with around 10% of children needing a liver transplant. Parents should watch for upset stomachs, particularly diarrhea. States currently reporting cases or suspected cases include: Alabama, Illinois, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Deleware, Minnesota, California, New York, Georgia, and Louisiana.

Adenovirus 41 is spread primarily through fecal/oral transmission so hand washing, particularly after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and of course prior to cooking or eating is a great way to reduce transmission. Remember to wash your hands in warm water (not hot, not cold) and soap. And sing the birthday song in your head to make sure you are washing for long enough. Also....make sure you wash all surfaces of the hand including between fingers, around the nails, and around the knuckles - the places the germs most like to hangout. Using one hand to "scratch" the palm of the other is a great way to get under your nails. Handwashing....who knew? Oh wait....we all knew.

FINAL THOUGHTS: May the 4th be with you!