Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Adults (MIS-A)

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS) is a rare but severe condition initially recognized in children and adolescents (MIS-C) infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Like in children, adults who have been infected with SARS-CoV-2 can develop MIS (MIS-A) days to weeks after getting sick with COVID-19. MIS-A is a condition where inflammation occurs in different internal and external body parts like the heart, gastrointestinal tract, skin, or brain. MIS-A is less common than MIS-C. Compared with MIS-C, MIS-A can also be more difficult to distinguish from acute COVID-19. However, like children with MIS-C, adults with MIS-A appear to recover quickly from the most dangerous heart-related complications.

CDC is still learning about MIS-A and how it affects adults, so we don’t know why some adults have gotten sick with MIS-A and others have not. We also don’t know if particular variants of SARS-CoV-2 are more likely to cause MIS-A, or if adults with certain health conditions are more likely to get MIS-A. These are among the many questions CDC is working to try to understand.

CDC is working with state, local, and territorial health departments; U.S. and international scientists; healthcare providers; and other partners to learn more about MIS-A.