Pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome (PMIS) is a very rare disease potentially linked to new coronavirus infection (which is responsible for COVID-19) in children and teens. The condition is marked by symptoms similar to those of Kawasaki disease and toxic shock syndrome, including body inflammation, rash, high fever, upset stomach and cardiac dysfunction, but there are some differences. For example, Kawasaki disease occurs commonly in children younger than 5 years of age and in children of Asian ancestry, but PMIS occurs in children of any age and so far has not been reported from Asian countries such as Japan, China and Korea.

Though dozens of cases have been reported in the U.S. and worldwide, researchers do not have strong evidence regarding what is causing the sudden surge in cases, but they have found that children who develop symptoms also test positive for COVID-19 antibodies — meaning they likely recently had the illness. More research is needed to better understand the syndrome and its connection to the new coronavirus infection.

While scientific investigations are underway around the world, parents are encouraged to monitor their children for symptoms including a rash, prolonged fever, tiredness and being less active than usual. Important to note, children may not have any specific symptoms, making this condition sometimes challenging for parents to spot. Treatment options are still being investigated, but may include treatments for Kawasaki disease such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), steroids and other anti-inflammatory drugs.

Expert Kwang Sik Kim, M.D., director of the Eudowood Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, is available for comment on pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome.

For information from Johns Hopkins Medicine about the coronavirus pandemic, visit the coronavirus information page. For information on the coronavirus from throughout the Johns Hopkins enterprise, including the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and The Johns Hopkins University, visit the coronavirus resource center.