OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — In a release, Children’s Hospital said that its specialists, who have been caring for regional children with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) since its identification early in the pandemic, are noticing a rise in cases within the region.
This is a rare, complex syndrome associated with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, that can inflame the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes, or GI organs. It can severely impact children's hearts, and we don't yet know what that looks like long-term.
Fifty percent of MIS-C cases have required admission to our ICUs. Kids can get sick very quickly up to six weeks after having COVID-19, even if they were asymptomatic with their original acute COVID infection.
In December, Children’s Hospital said it cared for 10 patients with MIS-C — its highest monthly total so far. The hospital added that December and January’s increase in cases likely reflects the result of travel and gatherings over the holiday season.
“This rise in cases — and the sickness it causes in children — are a reminder that our community must stay vigilant in preventing the spread of COVID-19 by following the CDC recommendations for wearing a mask, frequent hand washing and social distancing. While many characterize COVID-19 as a virus primarily affecting adults, we want to remind and reinforce that it can take a serious toll on children, as well,” said Children’s Hospital representatives in a statement.
