More cases of hepatitis found in children in Scotland
Another four cases have been identified in children across Scottish health boards
Another four cases of hepatitis have been identified in children across Scotland, as health bosses continue to investigate the cause.
It takes the total number of cases in children here to 26, according to the latest Public Health Scotland figures.
Across the UK, there are 176 infections in children under 10.
Dr Jim McMenamin, head of health protection at PHS, said investigations "increasingly suggest that there is a link to adenovirus infection".
He said:
"Adenoviruses are commonly passed from person to person and by touching contaminated surfaces, as well as through the respiratory system.
"Common infections, like adenovirus, can be prevented with good hand and respiratory hygiene.
"I would, therefore, encourage parents and care-givers to supervise young children while they are washing their hands to ensure they do so properly."
The usual viruses which cause infectious hepatitis - A to E - have not been detected and the majority of cases are in children under five.
Last month, the World Health Organisation said there were almost 300 probable cases of children with severe hepatitis detected in 20 countries worldwide.
Health officials have urged parents if they notice their youngsters showing signs of jaundice, where there is a yellow tinge in the whites of the eyes or on the skin, then they should contact their GP or other health care professional.
Other symptoms can include dark urine, pale-grey poo, itchy skin, muscle and joint pains, tiredness, feeling sick, a high temperature, loss of appetite and stomach pain.
Dr McMenamin added:
"PHS continues to work with NHS and public health colleagues across the UK to investigate other potential causes and we will issue further updates as the situation develops."
Health officials said there was no evidence to link it to the Covid-19 vaccine, because the majority of those who have contracted hepatitis are too young to have had the jag.