Nine key symptoms of toxic shock-like condition linked to coronavirus in children

A mysterious new coronavirus-related illness has hit the headlines in recent weeks, after several cases were seen in children across the globe.

The illness is being described as an ‘inflammatory syndrome’, similar to Kawasaki disease and toxic shock syndrome.

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is often associated with tampon use in young women, but can actually affect anyone of any age - including children.

The condition is rare but life-threatening, and is caused by bacteria getting into the body and releasing harmful toxins.

The NHS explained: “TSS gets worse very quickly and can be fatal if not treated promptly. But if it's diagnosed and treated early, most people make a full recovery.”

TSS can cause a widespread sunburn-like rash (NEJM)

According to the NHS, TSS has nine key symptoms:

1. A high temperature
2. Flu-like symptoms, such as a headache, feeling cold, feeling tired or exhausted, an aching body, a sore throat and a cough
3. Feeling and being sick
4. Diarrhoea
5. A widespread sunburn-like rash
6. Lips, tongue and the whites of the eyes turning a bright red
7. Dizziness or fainting
8. Difficulty breathing
9. Confusion

Parents urged to be vigilant against symptom in children (Getty Images)

If you notice these symptoms in your child, it’s important to seek medical help as soon as possible.

The NHS added: “Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a medical emergency.

“While these symptoms could be due to a different condition, it's important to contact your GP, a local out-of-hours service, or NHS 111 as soon as possible if you have a combination of these symptoms.”

Doctors have now reported cases of the mysterious illness in the UK, the US, France, Italy, Spain and Switzerland.

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The first reports were in the UK, where there are believed to be at least 12 cases.

Meanwhile, France’s health minister, Olivier Veran, revealed earlier this month that the illness has been seen in ‘about 15 children of all ages.’

Speaking to Franceinfo, Mr Veran also confirmed that cases have been reported in Spain, Italy and Switzerland, listing fever, digestive issues and vascular inflammation as key symptoms.