Colorado reports jump in MIS-C, syndrome tied to COVID-19 in children
Colorado saw an increase in cases of an inflammatory syndrome linked to COVID-19 in children at the end of the year, and the state health department advised parents to be vigilant as their kids return to school.
Much is still unknown about multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children, or MIS-C, but almost all children who have it previously tested positive for COVID-19. Most children recover from the virus after mild symptoms, or none. A small fraction of infected children become seriously ill from an immune overreaction about two to four weeks after having the virus.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment reported an increase in MIS-C cases in December, with nine confirmed cases and 16 others under review. If those cases are confirmed, it would more than double the total since spring.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed 20 cases in Colorado between May and November. Two Colorado children died of MIS-C complications in the spring.
Children who have COVID-19 symptoms or were close to someone who has the virus should get tested, the state health department said.
Parents should take their child to an emergency room if they show severe symptoms of MIS-C, such as:
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Inability to stay awake
- Blue lips or face
- Severe abdominal pain
Other symptoms can be caused by multiple illnesses, and parents should call a doctor if a child starts showing them:
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Neck pain
- Rash
- Bloodshot eyes
- Excessive tiredness
Most children recover after treatment with medications to reduce inflammation, such as steroids, and with supportive care like intravenous fluids or supplemental oxygen. Without treatment, children are at risk of damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys and other organs.
“There’s still a lot we don’t know about MIS-C and the notable increase in cases is a clear reminder that our children are also at risk of serious complications from COVID-19,” Dr. Eric France, chief medical officer for the state health department, said in a news release. “As in-person learning resumes, it’s important that students continue to take measures to decrease the spread of COVID-19, such as masking, practicing physical distancing, hand washing, and staying home when they are ill.”
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