In the early stages of the pandemic, we were reassured that COVID-19 posed little risk to children. The CDC indicated that when children do contract the virus, their symptoms are typically milder than those experienced by adults. However, a concerning condition has emerged among some children infected with the virus, known as MIS-C, or multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. This condition was first identified by researchers in London and has since been reported in several U.S. cases. As of last week, NBC noted that 157 cases have been documented in New York City alone—the epicenter of the U.S. COVID-19 crisis—and cases have appeared in about half of the states.
While I understand that these instances are still rare, the very existence of MIS-C frightens me. My children may have a low probability of contracting the virus, but the thought of them falling ill is unbearable. I constantly envision my youngest, just six years old, sick and alone in a hospital, unable to have me by his side. The fact that complications are uncommon does little to comfort me; I’ve seen the news of parents losing their children due to COVID-19-related issues, and the ‘it won’t happen to me’ mentality simply isn’t an option.
What is MIS-C?
According to the CDC, this severe inflammatory syndrome is linked to COVID-19, whether through current or past infection. MIS-C exhibits symptoms that may differ from Kawasaki Disease, which include persistent fever, rash, abdominal pain, red eyes, and swollen lymph nodes, as detailed by Stanford Children’s Health. These symptoms are vague enough to trigger my anxiety; any minor discomfort in my kids could send me racing to the pediatrician. This reinforces my decision: my children will not leave the house until a vaccine is available. They will miss Halloween, Christmas, and visits with their grandmother.
One mother’s harrowing experience highlights the risks. Sarah, a New Yorker, reported that her son, Max, developed MIS-C after their family ended quarantine from COVID-19. Initially, it seemed like a mild stomach issue, but it escalated quickly, leaving him unable to eat or sit up. A trip to the ER led to a MIS-C diagnosis, which affected his heart—something that is now a lasting concern. The reality that her child could face serious health issues due to a virus is a fear I can relate to deeply. As a parent, the guilt of not being able to protect your child from such risks is overwhelming.
Despite the statistics indicating that out of 147 diagnosed children in New York, only three have died, the thought of any child suffering is unacceptable. I know the odds are low, but my anxiety does not care about probabilities. I cannot bear the thought of my child becoming ill, suffering alone, or worse. As a result, they will remain at home until I feel confident that it is safe for them to venture out.
Conclusion
In conclusion, until we have a clearer understanding of COVID-19’s impact on children, my kids will stay indoors. Protecting them is paramount, and I will do whatever is necessary to keep them safe.
For more insights into parenting and health during these challenging times, check out our other blog posts like this one, and consider visiting resources such as Make a Mom for expert advice, or RMANY for comprehensive information on pregnancy and home insemination.
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