LAist is part of Southern California Public Radio (SCPR), a member-supported public media network. Hear our news on-air at our partner site:
Across the country, doctors are reporting cases of children with a rare inflammatory condition that is linked to the coronavirus.
The illness, known as Pediatric Inflammatory Multi-System Syndrome (PIMS), is similar to a disorder known as Kawasaki Disease. Symptoms include high fever, rashes and inflammation that can affect organs, including the heart.
The doctors at Children's Hospital Los Angeles have treated 16 patients who've exhibited symptoms consistent with this condition since April. Four of them also tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies, meaning they had the coronavirus before developing PIMS, said Dr. Jackie Szmuszkovicz. The pediatric cardiologist, who is a Kawasaki disease specialist, told us:
“What we’re learning is that the manifestations of the PIMS can range broadly. It can be a syndrome similar to Kawasaki disease, all the way to a syndrome that is more similar to toxic shock syndrome with some children. The concern is that it can cause coronary artery enlargement or aneurysms in children.”
Listen to her interview with Take Two, our newsroom's local news and culture show, which airs on 89.3 KPCC.
Our news is free on LAist. To make sure you get our coverage: Sign up for our daily coronavirus newsletter. To support our nonprofit public service journalism: Donate now.