Maldives has detected multiple cases of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) from children exposed to COVID-19.
MIS-C is a condition where different body parts become inflamed, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes, or gastrointestinal organs. Children with MIS-C are generally found to have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, or had been around someone with COVID-19. Symptoms of MIS-C include a fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, neck pain, rash, bloodshot eyes and swollen limbs.
Speaking to PSM News, Pediatrician Dr. Ahmed Faisal said MIS-C is usually associated with the inflammation of two different organs or systems. Dr. Faisal said MIS-C usually affects children aged 10-11, although it could affect children of other ages as well. He noted there have been cases of MIS-C in the Maldives, detected from children who had recovered from COVID-19. As such he said 7 cases have been detected in the Maldives, of which 4 cases are critical.
Speaking further, Dr. Faisal said the most important measure to be taken to safeguard children from MIS-C is to safeguard them from COVID-19. The doctor also urged parents to give their children fluids regularly in small amounts rather than a large amount all at once, and to seek treatment early if infected with the virus.