State to begin reporting on deadly child COVID complications

The state’s Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is preparing to begin reporting numbers of a deadly condition that affects children infected with COVID-19: MIS-C.

MIS-C stands for Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children and though it is rare, it’s effects can be particularly nasty. Affected children experience out of control inflammation in different parts of the body, including their heart, lungs, and brains. In isolated incidents adults have also developed the syndrome, but it primarily afflicts the young.

As of December 14, Michigan has only reported 43 cases of MIS-C. That includes one 4-year-old who developed symptoms a month after originally contracting COVID-19. Michigan Radio reports that the child has survived, though he spent several weeks in the hospital.

Not every child has been so lucky. The state reports that up to six children have died with the condition so far this year.

Though doctors don’t know what causes MIS-C, they do know what symptoms to watch out for. Those include gut pain, vomiting, diarrhea, a rash, bloodshot eyes, neck pain, and fatigue.

Michigan will report new data on MIS-C cases in the state twice monthly via its COVID-19 dashboard.