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The Facts
According to two independent studies from UK researchers, the recent outbreak of hepatitis among children is likely due to a common virus.
The outbreak was first identified in April, and there have reportedly been at least 1k cases across 35 countries, with 22 fatalities and 46 requiring liver transplants.
The Spin
Narrative A
This study reinforces the damage that the pandemic lockdowns did to small children. The endless cycle of lockdowns may have weakened their immunity and left them at risk of infections like the adenovirus. Enforced social isolation has consequences.
Narrative B
There are a lot of question marks here and we can't jump to conclusions. While these studies are a great step to understanding this illness, additional research will be needed to determine the cause and the timing of this outbreak.
