Overview

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare but serious condition. It causes inflammation, which can affect the heart, lungs, brain, and other organs. A child usually has a fever for 24 hours or longer, plus other symptoms. These can vary, but common ones include belly pain, vomiting, diarrhea, neck pain, a rash, red eyes, and dizziness or lightheadedness. Most children get better with treatment.

MIS-C is not well understood, but it's probably related to COVID-19. It may happen because a child's or teen's immune system overreacts to the virus.