The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has confirmed a child in Wisconsin died from multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare but serious condition associated with COVID-19. The child lived in southeast Wisconsin and was under 10 years old. There have been 183 MIS-C cases reported in Wisconsin since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is the first case to result in a death. DHS will not be disclosing any additional patient information to protect privacy and out of respect for the family.
“We are saddened to report that a child has passed away from MIS-C,” said State Health Officer Paula Tran. “Although COVID-19 cases are declining throughout the state, we are still seeing very high levels of disease transmission in all 72 counties. As COVID-19 continues to cause illness, hospitalizations, and death in our communities, we urge all Wisconsinites to take steps to protect themselves against COVID-19.”
MIS-C causes parts of the body to become inflamed and can affect the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, and other organs. Most cases of MIS-C occur in children 3 to 12 years old who were exposed to COVID-19. If your child is showing any emergency warning signs of MIS-C, such as lingering fever, trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure that does not go away, confusion, inability to wake up or stay awake, bluish lips or face, or severe abdominal pain, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
DHS says the best way to prevent MIS-C is to protect children against COVID-19. DHS recommends everyone 5 years and older get vaccinated against COVID-19. For the best protection, everyone 12 years and older should also get a booster dose when eligible.