On 25 April, the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced that at least one child had died from a mystery strain of severe hepatitis. The following day, it was announced that investigations point towards the F41 strain of adenovirus as the likely cause. Despite this, the UK Health Security Agency said it cannot rule out other possible causes such as Covid-19.

Adenovirus has so far been identified in 40 out of the 53 hepatitis cases tested. While the majority of cases occur in the UK, where they now number 111, there are now 169 cases worldwide. To date, 11 children have received a liver transplant after contracting the disease, with the number of infected children only set to grow.

The world has experienced a global viral pandemic and set up infrastructure in response. These tools can now be proactively leveraged, rather than reactively, before this outbreak becomes any more serious. Tools include open-source genomic sequencing, the WHO’s Access to Covid-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator, and the exchange of open source data between countries. There is no need to scramble for resources, or set up resources or lines of communication: the networks already exist.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Countries are already working together to keep each other up-to-date with the latest cases. Public and private investment needs to be put into researching this strain of hepatitis and rapidly bringing the needed drugs to market, leveraging the fast-tracking system used for Covid-19 vaccines and drugs.

This outbreak is affecting some of the most vulnerable members of society. There is no excuse not to address it and work as globally and collaboratively as possible to manage it.

See Also: