Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C): What Every Parent Should Know

It’s a condition the CDC has linked to COVID-19, and while it’s uncommon, it can cause life-threatening problems with the heart, blood vessels, and other organs.

Before you panic  here’s the reassuring part: MIS-C is very rare and treatable, especially when caught early. This is what you need to know as a parent.

What Exactly Is MIS-C?

MIS-C is an inflammatory condition that doctors believe is the body’s immune system overreacting  often after a COVID-19 infection. In fact, 99% of children diagnosed with MIS-C have tested positive for the virus that causes COVID-19, or have been exposed to someone who had it.

Some cases look similar to Kawasaki disease, another rare illness that causes blood vessel inflammation and can affect the heart. But MIS-C doesn’t always follow the same pattern — which is why knowing the symptoms is so important.

Who Can Get MIS-C?

MIS-C has been reported in kids from infancy up to age 20, but most cases are in children between ages 1 and 14 (average age: 9). It’s slightly more common in boys and tends to affect Latino and Black children at higher rates.

Symptoms to Watch For

The signs of MIS-C can be different for every child, but the most common include:

Fever lasting more than a couple of days

Rash

Red eyes (conjunctivitis)

Stomach pain

Vomiting and/or diarrhea

Neck pain

Extreme tiredness, irritability, or unusual sleepiness

General weakness

Some of these symptoms  like fever and stomach upset  are also common in less serious illnesses. That’s why doctors use a combination of symptoms, physical exam, and lab tests to make the diagnosis.

Three Key Things Parents Should Know

1. It’s rare

As of May 2021, there were about 3,700 reported cases of MIS-C in the U.S., compared to almost 4 million COVID-19 cases in children. That’s less than 0.1%. Most kids with COVID-19 never develop MIS-C.

2. It’s treatable

While deaths have occurred, most children recover fully with proper care.

3. It’s serious

Even though it’s rare, MIS-C can progress quickly. Call your doctor immediately if your child develops any symptoms on the list above  especially if they also have:

Trouble breathing

Severe stomach pain

Chest pain or constant pressure

Pale, blue, or gray lips, skin, or nailbeds

Confusion or trouble staying awake

If any of these occur, go to the emergency room right away.

Don’t Delay Care

Some parents hesitate to take their child to the doctor or ER if they haven’t been vaccinated. That's understandable  but delaying care can be dangerous. Call your pediatrician if you’re worried. Together, you can decide the safest, fastest way to get your child the help they need.

The Takeaway for Parents

MIS-C is rare. It’s treatable. And with quick action, most children recover.

Your best defense is awareness  knowing what to look for and trusting your instincts when something feels “off.”

When it comes to your child’s health, it’s always better to call your doctor and hear, “It’s nothing serious” than to wait and wish you hadn’t.