The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a learning experience for healthcare workers and families. We are learning new ways to identify and treat infected patients every day. Generally, children seem to be spared from the serious respiratory distress syndrome affecting adults with the virus. We believe infected children may have mild or no symptoms most of the time. The CDC reports children under 18 years represent only 0.02% of COVID-19 virus fatalities and very few have been hospitalized. Most of those who require hospitalization have other health issues such as diabetes, cancer, or obesity. As of May 21, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA) reports they have only cared for 40 patients with this virus and only 1 remains in the hospital.
Parents are understandably concerned about recent news articles discussing a rare pediatric complication possibly linked to COVID-19 infection. This serious condition is called, pediatric multi-system inflammatory syndrome (PMIS). It affects otherwise healthy children. Doctors around the world report a small number of pediatric patients presenting with extreme health issues mimicking Kawasaki Disease or Toxic Shock Syndrome. Because this dangerous syndrome is very rare, we do not want to alarm parents. However, we feel it is important for parents to recognize the signs and symptoms so they can seek timely medical care.
The onset of PMIS symptoms occurs a few weeks following a COVID virus infection. Most of these children had negative COVID PCR tests initially but later antibody tests confirmed half of them had been infected with the virus. Medical experts believe the virus triggers an auto-immune response attacking major organs such as the heart. Symptoms include high fever for several days, red eyes with no discharge, rash, abdominal pain, and shock. This condition is caused by the body’s excessive immune response to the virus rather than from the virus itself. Fortunately, these patients usually respond well to supportive treatment and a blood product called intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).
Seek help immediately if your child has fever and seems profoundly ill. The best way to prevent illness is to practice social distancing and good hand-washing. Please call us if you have concerns. Our staff is available 24 hours a day to answer your questions and help keep your children safe and healthy.
