The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and Grant County Health District are confirming the first case of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) associated with COVID-19 in Grant County. After several days in Intensive Care Unit, the child who is under the age of 10, is now stable and recovering at home.
In the past year there were (42) known cases in Washington State.
MIS-C is a condition that causes inflammation in different body parts, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes, or gastrointestinal organs. Children with MIS-C may have a fever and symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, neck pain, rash, bloodshot eyes, or feeling extra tired. Symptoms can range from mild to severe with many patients requiring hospitalization. While the causes for MIS-C continue to be investigated, many children with MIS-C were infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 at the time of their illness.
The current definition includes the following:
- Under the age of 21, with a fever, laboratory evidence of inflammation, and severe illness involving more than two organs that requires hospitalization; AND
- No other plausible diagnoses; AND
- Positive COVID-19 test, or exposure to a confirmed case, within the four weeks prior to the onset of symptoms.
“Although rare, MIS-C is a dangerous complication that is associated with COVID-19. Most children suffering from MIS-C recover with treatment but may also become seriously ill and rarely even die.” said Dr. Brzezny, Grant County Health Officer. “It continues to be important that children and their families take measures to decrease their risk of COVID-19. Continue proper masking, hand washing, and physical distancing of 6 feet outside of your house and staying away from those who could be ill. These are the best ways to limit the spread of COVID-19.”
For more information on MIS-C, visit https://www.cdc.gov/mis-c/hcp/
