Parental Awareness of MIS-C: Survey reveals gaps in knowledge

A nationally representative survey conducted in the United States found significant lack of parental awareness regarding multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a severe complication that can arise following a SARS-CoV-2 infection.

The study highlights demographic factors associated with varying levels of awareness, emphasizing the need for targeted education efforts to increase parental understanding of MIS-C.

The survey garnered responses from 3230 out of 5034 participants, with only 32% of respondents reported having heard of MIS-C.

The study also identified several demographic variables associated with MIS-C awareness. Higher levels of education, specifically holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, were linked to increased awareness, as were respondents who identified as healthcare workers. Having a child with a chronic medical condition also correlated with heightened awareness. Moreover, those who had experienced more severe cases of COVID-19 themselves were more likely to be aware of MIS-C.

Certain demographics were associated with lower awareness levels. Respondents with children between the ages of 12 and 17 were less likely to be aware of MIS-C compared to those without, as were male respondents and those aged 18-34 years in comparison to respondents aged 35-44 years.

Importantly, awareness of MIS-C was linked to higher perceived severity and susceptibility of COVID-19. Those who were aware of MIS-C were more likely to recognize the severity and susceptibility of the disease.

Reference
Cole LD, Hammershaimb EA, Liang Y, et al. Awareness of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children Among US Parents: A Cross-Sectional Survey. Open Forum Infect Dis. 2023;10(10):ofad476. doi: 10.1093/ofid/ofad476. PMID: 37795505; PMCID: PMC10546954.