Covid-19-associated multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children - United States, March-July 2020

What is already known about this topic? Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare but severe condition that has been reported approximately 2-4 weeks after the onset of COVID-19 in children and adolescents. What is added by this report? Most cases of MIS-C have features of shock, with cardiac involvement, gastrointestinal symptoms, and significantly elevated markers of inflammation, with positive laboratory test results for SARS-CoV-2. Of the 565 patients who underwent SARS-CoV-2 testing, all had a positive test result by RT-PCR or serology. What are the implications for public health practice? Distinguishing MIS-C from other severe infectious or inflammatory conditions poses a challenge to clinicians caring for children and adolescents. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to expand in many jurisdictions, health care provider awareness of MIS-C will facilitate early recognition, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment.