The little known condition that affects children after Covid -the symptoms to look out for; A mum whose son contracted the condition urged other parents to 'trust their instincts' when it comes to their child's health.

Byline: By, George Mathias & Georgia Meadows

Parents are being warned over a little known condition which can affect children who have had coronavirus.

According to medical experts from Great Ormond Street, children who have caught coronavirus are showing signs of paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome just weeks after the child has had the virus.

The newly diagnosed condition can prove life-threatening if not treated correctly.

Go here for the latest coronavirus updates and breaking COVID-19 news

Symtons of paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome include inflammation throughout the body, and can require strong immunosuppressant drugs to fight it.

Whilst the vast majority of children with COVID-19 develop either no symptoms or very mild ones, this rare condition has been seen in a handful of children and adolescents.

Doctors believe that it is likely the result of the immune system overworking and attacking parts of the body that it shouldn't.

The main symptom is a high temperature that lasts for a few days and for many children they will recover well at home.

However, there can be complications including organ failure which need hospital treatment.

Symptoms to look out for

A rash

Tiredness and weakness

Tummy pain or cramps

Red and cracked lips

Swollen hands and feet

Peeling skin on your hands and feet

Headache

Red eyes

Muscle aches and pains

Diarrhoea and vomiting

Swollen neck glands

Unexplained irritability

The condition is treated by attempting to 'turn off' the immune system to stop inflammation and then resetting it using a combination of drugs such as anti-clotting agents and intravenous immunoglobulin IVIG.

The condition recently affected Cooper Hayton, an 11-year-old...

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT