In this episode of Munson Healthcare’s Munson Minutes, Christine Nefcy, MD, FAAP, Munson Healthcare’s Chief Medical Officer, shares an update on how COVID-19 is affecting kids, related conditions to look for, and how we can help keep them safe.
A few key points covered in this short conversation:
- What ages are currently eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine?
- What about Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)?
- What can parents do to lower the risks for their kids?
Children & COVID 19: Learn the Facts
Rebecca
Hi, northern Michigan, It's Rebecca – I’m back here at Munson Medical Center for Munson Minutes and I'm so excited. Because today I'm joined by Dr. Christine Nefcy. Not only is she one of our top medical experts here at Munson Healthcare, she’s also a pediatrician and a mother. So thank you for being here with me, Dr. Nefcy.
Christine Nefcy, MD, FAAP, Munson Healthcare Chief Medical Officer (Dr. Nefcy)
Thanks for having me.
Rebecca
Dr. Nefcy, I have two young children. And when COVID-19 started it really seemed to be affecting mostly older individuals. I wasn’t really worried about my kids. But now it seems that it’s affecting kids more. Can you talk about that? Because it’s really at the top of my mind.
Dr. Nefcy
As a pediatrician and mother myself, I certainly share your concern. I think what we saw with this latest surge is definitely an increase in the number of children and young people that were infected with COVID-19. We chalk that up to a couple of things.
First would be the success of the vaccination program in our older population. We combine that with some reopening and the start of high school athletics. And then the COVID-19 variants. And I’d say the variants probably are top of mind as they are much more contagious than the original form of the virus.
We absolutely saw an increase in the number of children and young adults that got infected with COVID-19.
Rebecca
Right now the vaccines are approved for ages 12 and up. What does that really mean and what can you tell us about that change?
Dr. Nefcy
That’s exactly right. The FDA did approve Pfizer’s emergency use authorization to vaccinate down to the age of 12. I think it’s important to note that the studies that have been done show great efficacy and safety in that age group.
Rebecca
That’s great, but my kids are younger than 12. So what should I be looking for and what can I do to help protect them?
Dr. Nefcy
The way to protect our younger children and other vulnerable members of our community are for more people to get vaccinated. And then, to follow the same mitigation factors that we have followed all along. Wearing a mask, washing your hands frequently, and practicing good hygiene.
As we head into the summer months we know that getting together outside is a much safer option than getting together inside.
Rebecca
Thanks Dr. Nefcy, that’s really helpful. We’ve certainly been following a lot of those mitigation factors, but I’ve also been reading about MIS-C. Can you tell me about what that is? Because it has me really worried.
Dr. Nefcy
MIS-C is Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. What we know so far is that it’s a complication from COVID-19 and we’re seeing an increased number of cases. As we see more children hospitalized, I want to be sure people understand that it’s not only a complication that requires children to be hospitalized with COVID-19, but it is a rare and very serious complication. This is an abnormal inflammatory response in an organ system. And when the inflammatory process happens, children get very sick.
Rebecca
Say my child does contract COVID-19. What symptoms or what signs of MIS-C should I be looking for?
Dr. Nefcy
You should be looking for fever. It could present as a rash. It could present as significant abdominal pain with or without vomiting and diarrhea. It could be neurologic symptoms like a bad headache or even slurred words. Anything respiratory and especially if your child appears to have difficulty breathing. All of those things would be very concerning and we would absolutely recommend that you see your pediatrician or family medicine provider. If it seems urgent or emergent, go get the appropriate level of care in an emergency room or urgent care clinic.
Rebecca
Dr. Nefcy, what should parents do if they have more questions about any of these topics?
Dr. Nefcy
For questions about your child’s symptoms, or whether you should get your child immunized, we always encourage you to talk to your pediatrician or family medicine physician. If you don’t have a primary care provider, or you have further questions, our Ask-a-Nurse line is also available 7 am to 11 pm, 7 days a week. Call 231-935-0951 to speak to a professional and they will guide you through any questions that you may have.
Rebecca
Thanks, Dr. Nefcy, it was great being here with you today. That’s great information. You can visit our website anytime or call the Ask-a-Nurse line to ask your questions at times that are convenient for you. Thanks for joining us and we’ll see you next time on the Munson Minutes.
Questions? Ask a Nurse!
Please call our Munson Healthcare Ask-a-Nurse team to discuss any of your COVID-19 vaccine questions. We’re here for you 24 hours a day at 231-935-0951. More FAQs are also available here: https://www.munsonhealthcare.org/covid19vaccine.
