Photo: Government of Alberta

By Emily Keller

covid-19 complication

Province investigating potential case of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children

May 27, 2020 | 5:24 PM

The province is now investigating a case of the newly reported condition known as multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C).

Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, made the announcement at Wednesday’s COVID-19 update.

The disease, which Dr. Hinshaw likened to Kawasaki disease, is an inflammatory disease that can affect multiple organs in the body, including the heart, kidneys, blood vessels and nervous system. Treatment for the condition could include steroids.

It affects mostly children and adolescents who have been diagnosed with COVID-19, and typically appears from a few weeks to a month after infection.

It has been reported in Quebec, Italy, the United States and the United Kingdom, and several other provinces are investigating potential cases.

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“Fever is key symptom of this syndrome, and other symptoms can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain,”

“The early information available suggests that the majority of children who have COVID-19 would not be expected to experience this syndrome.”

She could not confirm the location of the child or provide any identifying information, but did say that she believes the child to be in stable condition and that they are being treated in hospital.

“The case currently under investigation with respect to the criteria for this, because we are just in the process of making this reportable, so we’re just working on confirming some of those details.”

Dr. Hinshaw says that making the disease reportable will make it easier for them to track the illness and gain a better understanding. She says they are currently working to develop guidelines for health care providers in diagnosing and reporting the condition to public health authorities.

“I know this new condition might be scary for parents, I worry for my kids too. It is important to remember that this condition appears to be rare, and it is treatable. It is, however, a reminder, that we continue to learn new things about this virus, and that we must continue to be cautious in our relaunch.”