Several conservative news sites and commentators are promoting the false claim that the global outbreak of severe hepatitis in children is linked to COVID-19 vaccines. One article making this claim has been shared hundreds of thousands of times on social media. Health authorities have dismissed the connection because most of the children who have contracted hepatitis are unvaccinated. The U.S. outbreak is believed to be caused by adenovirus, a common virus that was detected in all the affected children.
Recommendation: The rise of severe hepatitis cases in children is causing understandable information seeking and widespread concern. Responding with empathy and acknowledging the concerns of parents is recommended, as is explaining that there is no evidence of a connection between the current hepatitis cases and COVID-19 vaccines. Informational materials may emphasize that COVID-19 vaccines have been rigorously tested to make sure that they are safe for all vaccinated individuals, including children, and that adverse side effects are extremely rare. Fact-Checking Source(s): Direct Response Read More +