Atlanta experts looking at possible COVID-19 link to mysterious children’s illness

ATLANTA — There’s growing concern and a new warning about a rare condition recently seen in dozens of children nationwide, and health experts are trying to determine if it’s linked to COVID-19.

A spokesperson for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta confirmed that a team of infectious disease and cardiology experts are evaluating several cases in metro Atlanta of children who exhibited Kawasaki-like symptoms and inflammation.

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Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta physician specialists stressed that it appears to be a rare finding with a low rate in our community.

New York health officials have already issued a warning about a rare inflammatory syndrome that has infected at least 64 children in that state.

The patients in New York have been hospitalized in intensive care between April 17 and May 1 with various symptoms associated with toxic shock or Kawasaki disease, a rare inflammatory syndrome that typically affects children under 5 years old. The 64 patients in New York state range from age 2 to 15. None have died but more than half have required blood pressure support, and five of the New York patients needed a ventilator.

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A spokesperson for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta said they have experts for treating the symptoms regardless of a potential link to COVID-19.

Families should contact their doctor or visit an emergency room if your child develops signs of illness such as high fever, rash, red eyes, abdominal pain and swelling of the face, hands or feet.

Health officials urged families to continue to protect themselves by practicing good hygiene habits, following social distancing measures, being careful around the elderly or anyone with a suppressed immune system and to wear masks in a public setting.

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