Alberta has reported two cases of acute hepatitis in children under the age of 16.

Chief of Health Dr. Dina Hinsho said on Wednesday that one of the children was discharged in good health, while the other remains in the hospital.

Eight potential cases have been reported in Ontario and Manitoba as the outbreak of unexplained severe cases affects young, healthy children worldwide.

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, and acute hepatitis occurs when liver functions are disrupted for less than six months.

Such cases were first reported in Scotland last month, and the World Health Organization said on Tuesday that there are now 348 potential cases worldwide.

Hinsho explained that any child with acute hepatitis without a known cause is counted as a case while the investigation continues.

Officials said a number of cases began with gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.

The children later showed signs of jaundice, where the skin and the whites of the eyes turn yellow. Other common symptoms of hepatitis include: fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, dark urine, pale stools, and joint pain.