Eleven other children across the UK contracted hepatitis, one of whom required a liver transplant

Experts have reassured parents that the rise in cases of hepatitis among youngsters has nothing to do with the Covid vaccine as the majority are under five, too young to be vaccinated

Another 11 children have been stricken with hepatitis, with one requiring a liver transplant – but experts have struggled to reassure parents the Covid vaccine is not to blame.

British health officials said more than 250 cases of hepatitis have now been identified, although the rate is slowing.

The surge in global cases in recent months had had medics searching for answers, but an update this week on the probe suggested they were linked to the adenovirus.

Since the last update, just over a week ago, one more child has required a liver transplant, bringing the total to 12.

According to experts, there is no evidence of a connection with the coronavirus vaccine. The majority of cases affect children under the age of five, who are too young to have had the vaccine.

Friday’s update said the investigation into the cases suggests they are linked to the adenovirus, but the investigation is ongoing.

Adenoviruses spread through coughs and sneezes, causing diseases and symptoms such as colds, sore throats and bladder infections.

Of the 251 confirmed cases, 180 are in England, 32 in Scotland, 17 in Wales and 22 in Northern Ireland.

Cases occur mainly in children under the age of five, who first develop diarrhea, followed by the onset of jaundice.

No child in the UK has died from the disease.

dr Alicia Demirjian, Incident Director at UKHSA, said: “We continue to investigate what may be behind the increase in hepatitis, but recent findings continue to suggest that adenovirus infection plays a role.

“It is important to remember that it is very rare for a child to develop hepatitis, so parents should not be overly concerned.

“Maintaining normal hygiene practices, including ensuring children wash their hands properly on a regular basis, is good practice year-round. It helps reduce the spread of many common infections, including adenovirus.

“We continue to remind everyone to look out for the signs of hepatitis – particularly jaundice, look for a yellow cast in the whites of the eyes – and contact your doctor if you are concerned.”