COVID-19 in children can lead to a condition known as Kawasaki Syndrome, even if the kids show no symptoms of the virus.
Kawasaki-Style Syndrome Surge in Kids Post-COVID: What You Need to Know
Hey there! Let's chat about Kawasaki-like syndrome, a thing that's been popping up in kids lately. It's often linked to COVID-19, even in those with no symptoms or mild cases. This info comes directly from Bayan Turdalina, an Associate Professor at Astana Medical University.
- So, this syndrome isn't exactly rare at your clinic, huh?
- Nah, it's been knocking around since early August. We've seen a total of 7 cases - some school-aged kiddos, and a few toddlers. All got treated, sent home to rest, but we're keeping a close eye on 'em.
- How do you tell this syndrome apart from other medical shenanigans?
- Kawasaki-like syndrome, AKA multisystem inflammatory syndrome, messes with your body, affecting more than one system. It's characterized by a high fever, stubborn despite meds, and tummy troubles like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Also, peepers and kisser membranes can get inflamed, and you might notice a blotchy rash and joint or muscle pain. Swollen hands and feet are another thing to look out for.
- How do we keep kids safe from this syndrome?
- Here's the deal: Kawasaki-like syndrome can be a complication of COVID-19 in children, even without any obvious symptoms. Given how MIS-C usually forms, it can develop after a COVID-19 infection, even if the child seemed fine. To protect our little ones, it's essential to keep limiting adult contact and following all safety measures to avoid a COVID-19 second wave. That way, we not only curb the virus, but we're also guarding kids from this disease and its potential complications.
For additional precautions to keep your little one safe, keep reading. As a reminder, vaccination, hygiene practices, masking, social distancing, symptom monitoring, and promoting a healthy lifestyle can all help reduce the risk of Kawasaki-like syndrome and other COVID-19 complications. Stay healthy, stay safe!
[1] Although preventing Kawasaki-like syndrome directly is challenging, reducing the risk of COVID-19 infections helps minimize its possibility.
[2] Vaccination, followed by healthcare providers' recommendations, is crucial for COVID-19 protection as it aids in reducing the illness's severity and potential complications.
[3] Hygiene practices like frequent hand washing with soap for at least 20 seconds, hand sanitizer when soap isn't available, mask usage in crowded areas or during outbreaks, and social distancing can help lower the risk of viral transmission.
[4] Being aware of symptoms like prolonged fever, abdominal pain, or rash and seeking medical attention promptly is vital to address potential MIS-C cases early.
[5] Maintaining a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular exercise can support overall immune health and potentially lower the likelihood of complications.
- Given the close association of Kawasaki-like syndrome with COVID-19, implementing science-based measures, such as vaccination and stringent hygiene practices like wearing masks and social distancing, can significantly help in reducing the risk of Kawasaki-like syndrome by minimizing its root cause, COVID-19.
- Ensuring health-and-wellness for children includes not only following precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19 and prevent Kawasaki-like syndrome directly, but also promoting healthy habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, which support overall immune health and potentially lower the likelihood of complications.
