Doctors identify first Wisconsin cases of rare syndrome linked to COVID-19

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — Doctors at Children’s Wisconsin have identified the state’s first cases of a rare syndrome tied to COVID-19 in children.

Seven cases of Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome in children have been reported to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

Five children in Wisconsin were discharged after a short hospital stay. Two remain in the hospital, but are in good condition.  A majority of the cases are from southeast Wisconsin.

The syndrome is a new and causes swelling in different organs, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes and gastrointestinal organs. It’s been seen in some kids who have been infected or exposed to COVID-19.

Persistent high fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, swelling of the hands and feet, red eyes and tongue are all symptoms.

“Covid-19 was first reported about six months ago. So while we know a lot about COVID-19, we still have a lot more to learn. And in a very similar way, this syndrome is much newer and only more recently recognized. So there is still quite a bit to learn as we produce and share information,” said Michael Gutzeit, the Chief Medical Officer for Children’s Wisconsin.

Children’s Wisconsin created a team to help identify kids with suspected MIS-C after it was found in the United States in late April and early May. They say while this syndrome is rare it can be severe. They are urging parents to take their child to the doctor if they are concerned.

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