AN article in the
New York Times highlights new evidence that some children may become very sick, and we are beginning to learn more about who may be most at risk and what parents need to watch for. This past week there were reports of children hospitalized in different locations, including New York City, with a
multisystem inflammatory disease. In addition, new research continues to be published describing the ways that the virus can behave in children, which is not always how it behaves in adults. Many of the symptoms of this recently described syndrome resemble those of a rare childhood illness called Kawasaki disease. While Pediatric Multi-system Inflammatory Syndrome sounds frightening, the
American Academy of Pediatrics reminds parents that this condition is very rare and if notice any of the following symptoms, call your pediatrician: a fever that won't go away; abdominal pain, diarrhea or vomiting; rash or changes in skin color; trouble breathing and, your child seems confused or overly sleepy. Your pediatrician will let you know if your child needs to be seen in the office or if you need to go to the emergency department.
