Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)
Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a condition where different body parts can become inflamed, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes, or gastrointestinal organs. Children with MIS-C may have a fever and various symptoms, including abdominal (gut) pain, vomiting, diarrhea, neck pain, rash, bloodshot eyes, or feeling extra tired. We do not yet know what causes MIS-C. However, many children with MIS-C had the virus that causes COVID-19, or had been around someone with COVID-19.
Since June 2020, several case reports and series have reported a similar multisystem inflammatory syndrome in adults (MIS-A). Learn more.
Contact your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic right away if your child is showing symptoms of MIS-C or symptoms of COVID-19. Seek emergency care right away if your child is showing any of these emergency warning signs or other concerning signs:
- Trouble breathing
- Pain or pressure in the chest that does not go away
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin
- Severe abdominal pain
Call 911 or call ahead to your local emergency facility: Notify the operator that you are seeking care for someone who has or may have COVID-19.
For Parents
What we know about MIS-C, what to do if you think your child is sick with MIS-C, and how doctors will care for your child
Stop the spread of COVID-19 in children, help your child stay healthy, and help them cope with stress during the outbreak
For Healthcare Professionals
Case definition, clinical presentation, Case Report Form and more resources about MIS-C for healthcare providers
Maintaining immunizations, clinical presentation, and more resources about COVID-19 in children for healthcare providers