Va. confirms first child death from rare COVID-19-linked condition
The Virginia Department of Health confirmed Friday that a child died from a Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome associated with COVID-19. It’s the state’s first recorded death related to MIS-C, according to VDH.
Officials say the child lived within the Prince William Health District and was between 10 and 19.
“We are devastated by this sad news, and our hearts go out to the family and friends of this child,” Virginia Health Commissioner Dr. M. Norman Oliver said in a release. “COVID-19 continues to cause illness, hospitalizations and deaths across Virginia and the U.S.”
MIS-C is a health condition associated with COVID19 and found predominantly in children, according to health officials. The condition was first recorded in late April 2020 in the United Kingdom. The first U.S. cases were reported in New York City in early May of 2020.
Virginia has reported 111 cases of MIS-C.
MIS-C can cause problems with a child’s heart, lungs, kidneys and other organs. Most children with the ailment have ongoing fever and more than one of the following symptoms: stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, skin rash, bloodshot eyes, and dizziness or lightheadedness.
“As we enter a time of year when families are traveling and gathering for holidays, we urge all Virginians to take steps to protect themselves and their families,” Oliver said. “Please get vaccinated if you are eligible. Practice social distancing, frequent hand washing, and wearing face coverings, as appropriate.”
For more information on MIS-C, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.