Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) | Protecting Your Kids

Most of us heard it the past few months – COVID-19 is harmless in kids. Even us, as Pediatricians, we somewhat believed it. Kids weren’t getting it. And if they got it, they weren’t really getting sick from it. Schools were closed – not so much to protect the kids. But to prevent them from spreading it among themselves then bringing it home. We were more worried about the elderly, since they were most likely to get the sickest from COVID-19 (and still are).

But, my how things have changed in the past week!

If you haven’t heard by now, there’s been more info coming out about a severe illness associated with the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). We’re still learning more about Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), as the days go on. We thought we were getting a good grasp on COVID-19. But, now we aren’t so sure.

I’ve talked to a lot of concerned parents recently. So, I figured I’d share with you what we know so far, and answer a few of your questions:

What’s the back story on Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)?

The United Kingdom was the first to report cases of MIS-c in April. Healthcare workers there noticed a severe illness in a handful of kids that seemed to be related to COVID-19. Since then, other countries have reported similar cases. Here in the US, New York has reported almost 150 cases of MIS-c since April, and other states are noticing cases as well.

What are the symptoms of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)?

Fever, problems with at least 2 organs/systems (heart, kidneys, lungs, blood, GI, skin, or nerves), a positive COVID-19 or exposure to someone with COVID-19 in the past month. These kids usually don’t look great. A child with MIS-C will also have bloodwork that shows some type of inflammation. (A sign the body is revved up, fighting something).

If your child has a fever, belly pain, vomiting, diarrhea, neck pain, rash, red eyes, tiredness (any combination of these symptoms) – you should contact your child’s healthcare provider. Severe symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, severe sleepiness, blue color to the lips/face, or significant belly pain. A child with any of these severe symptoms, should be seen at the Emergency Room right away.

Note that in a lot of cases, kids don’t show symptoms when they have COVID-19, and parents may not even know their child had it. MIS-c can show up weeks after a child was infected with COVID-19.

Why does Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) happen?

This, we don’t know. Because there’s so little data available, we don’t yet know why this disease happens. It’s unclear which kids are more likely to be affected.

Does Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) only happen in children?

So far, that’s what the experts think. But, we can’t be sure until more data is collected.

What is the treatment for Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)?

Because these kids have affected organs, they require admission to the hospital – and likely the Intensive Care Unit. The main focus is really to support their failing organs and keep them alive as their body fights.

Many hospitals are treating patients with COVID-19 with different medications, with varying success. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) still hasn’t approved any one specific treatment for COVID-19.

What can you do to prevent Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)?

The short answer: STAY HOME! Even if your state is opening back up, your entire family is still safer at home. If you do have to go out (for essential errands or doctor’s visits), wearing a mask is still the thing to do. Your kids (2 years and older) should do the same. Practice social distancing, and stay away from people who are sick. Don’t touch your face, and remember hand sanitizer and washing your hands as often as you can. At home, sanitize your surfaces on a regular basis, just in case COVID-19 sneaks its way in.

I know I try my best everyday to not bring anything home to my kids!

What about daycare? Summer camp? School?

My best recommendation is to keep your kids home and out of childcare, if you can. Believe me, I know how hard it is – especially if you still have to work outside the home. Reach out to family and friends for help with your kids. Or switch to one-on-one care for them if you can. The less kids and adults around, the better.

With all of this still going on, it’s hard to know what school will look like in the fall. But, for now, do what you can to keep your kids safe at home.

Try to stay calm

I know COVID-19 was worrisome in itself. We thought our kids were relatively safe. This new illness now bring a new wave of anxiety and uncertainty for us all – especially as moms.

Looking at the bright side, the number of kids with COVID-19 (and with MIS-c) is still very low. Especially compared to the adults around us. But, as parents, we still can’t let our guards down. We have to protect our kids from this because you just never know.

Lots of data is still being collected on this new-found illness. We’ll learn more as more cases are reported. Hopefully, we’ll get a better idea of which kids may be at a higher risk, what we can expect when kids get it, and the best ways to treat.

In the meantime, do what you can to keep your family safe at home. Keep yourselves occupied, have lots of bonding and family time, give lots of hugs and kisses, focus on the positives of social distancing, and try to keep your mind off the craziness around you!

The CDC is an awesome resource for staying up to date on the latest with COVID-19 and caring for your children through this pandemic.

Other helpful resources related to Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children:

• Why I Gave My Kids The COVID-19 Vaccine
• Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19): Protecting Our Kids
• Not Caring About COVID-19 Is Not OK
• Why Are Schools Closed For Coronavirus COVID-19

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