The first case of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare disease that leads to adverse health impacts, has been reported in Washoe County. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that the cause of the condition is unknown, but that many children who have had COVID-19 also develop MIS-C.
According to the Washoe County Health District, “The case previously tested positive for COVID-19 and recovered, but then came down with symptoms and was hospitalized.”
The CDC’s website says that the condition, which is rare but severe, causes many different organs in the body to become inflamed, and symptoms can include fever, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, neck pain, rash, bloodshot eyes and fatigue. These symptoms can vary from child to child and can occur approximately 2-4 weeks after the onset of COVID-19 in children and adolescents under the age of 20.
The CDC said that it’s still learning about MIS-C, such as what risk factors there are for it. “We don’t know why some children have gotten sick with MIS-C and others have not,” the CDC notes on its website.
“This re-enforces the importance of testing for COVID-19 for everyone, especially children,” said Kevin Dick, District Health Officer for Washoe County. “Given that children are most likely to contract MIS-C, it’s imperative that we keep our children safe by taking safety precautions with COVID-19, such as wearing a face covering, social distancing and washing your hands frequently. Our thoughts are with the child and their family and we hope for a speedy recovery.”
More information about MIS-C can be found on the CDC website. Children who exhibit symptoms of MIS-C should seek emergency care immediately.
