Pediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome Temporally Related to COVID-19
A rare condition likely linked to COVID-19 has been reported in hundreds of children across Europe and North America.
Last month the World Health Organization (WHO) shared the news of several cases involving children and adolescents who required admission to intensive care units (ICU).
The hospitalizations were due to a multisystem inflammatory syndrome that resembled other conditions such as Kawasaki disease and toxic shock syndrome.
These children displayed overlapping symptoms of COVID-19, Kawasaki disease, and toxic shock syndrome. Doctors are calling this new ailment multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children or MIS-C.
Doctors have already identified cases of MIS-C in the United States, and at least three children have died from it in New York.
Although this condition is rare, we should all know what to look out for to protect our children.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Health officials from the World Health Organization as well as doctors in the U.S. and Europe warn parents to look for the following signs:
- Persistent fever over 101°F
- Prolonged abdominal pain
- Skin rash
- Bloodshot eyes or conjunctivitis
- Racing heart
- Diarrhea
- Inflammation and swelling of hands, feet, lymph nodes and neck
- Sore throat
- Vomiting
What is Kawasaki Disease?
Kawasaki Disease is a severe condition that can cause inflammation of the arteries, and the leading cause of coronary heart disease in children. The effects of the disease can be lifelong, and it can lead to cardiovascular problems, including aneurysms and heart attacks.
The Link Between Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children and Adolescents and COVID-19
COVID-19 appears to be a trigger to this new multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children and adolescents. Many of the children who present symptoms of MIS-C also tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies, meaning they had the virus at some point.
Doctors now know that COVID-19 infection affects the body’s T-Cells and appears to reduce their ability to contain the inflammatory process.
The main difference between classic Kawasaki Disease and this new illness is that pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome can affect all the organs, not just the blood vessels and heart.
How Concerned Should You Be?
According to experts, kids seem to be part of the population least affected by COVID-19, and most have mild symptoms. However, they can develop severe complications, making it extremely important for parents to stay vigilant.
As mentioned before, multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in children and adolescents is uncommon. There are few cases reported worldwide, and although parents should be on the lookout for symptoms, there is no reason to panic.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If your child shows symptoms compatible with COVID-19, you should have them tested as soon as possible.
If one of your kids also shows any of the signs and symptoms mentioned above, please bring them to the nearest Altus Emergency Center for evaluation.
A prompt diagnosis accompanied by appropriate medical care can lower the risk of permanent organ damage.
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A prompt diagnosis accompanied by appropriate medical care can lower the risk of permanent organ damage.
