LAC DPH Health Alert: Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome Potentially Associated with COVID-19

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LAC DPH) issued a health alert on May 12, 2020. This alert covers the pediatric multi-system inflammatory syndrome characterized by persistent fever and features of Kawasaki disease and/or toxic shock syndrome that is being reporting by hospitals in the United Kingdom and New York City. It is possible that this syndrome is associated with COVID-19 infection.

Read the full LAC DPH Health Alert: Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome Potentially Associated with COVID-19.

Because guidance for the prevention and management of COVID-19 may change, providers and staff are encouraged to visit the Los Angeles Health Alert Network (LAHAN) website frequently. You can also subscribe to the LAHAN to receive alerts, advisories, and updates from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.

⇒ Keep up to date by visiting the LAC DPH Coronavirus Webpage for Health Professionals.

Actions Requested of Providers

• Immediately refer patients with a picture of toxic shock or Kawasaki Disease to a specialist in pediatric infectious disease, rheumatology, and/or critical care, as indicated. Early diagnosis and treatment of patients meeting full or partial criteria for Kawasaki disease is critical to preventing end-organ damage and other long-term complications.
   
• Consider testing patients with Kawasaki disease, atypical Kawasaki disease, and/or toxic shock syndrome-like for COVID-19.
   
• Report possible cases to LAC DPH. Any patient less than 21 years of age with persistent fever (four or more days) AND either typical Kawasaki disease, atypical Kawasaki disease, and/or toxic shock syndrome-like presentation; AND no alternative etiology identified that explains the clinical presentation. Note: patients should be reported regardless of SARS-CoV-2 PCR test result.