82 NYC Kids Suffer From Mysterious Coronavirus-Linked Syndrome

NEW YORK CITY — Thirty more New York City kids have been diagnosed with a potentially fatal syndrome linked to new coronavirus in just 24 hours, Mayor Bill de Blasio said Wednesday.

A total of 82 kids are being treated for pediatric multi-system inflammatory syndrome, a disease that has already claimed the life of a 5-year-old boy in New York City, the mayor said.

Of the 82 New York City kids diagnosed the syndrome, 53 tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies, the mayor said.

"Our healthcare professionals are learning about this syndrome as quickly as they can," de Blasio said. "The bottom line is we're going to do everything we can to protect the children of New York City."

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The numbers are rising rapidly with 52 cases reported in New York City Tuesday and 38 cases Sunday.

New York City will launch a public service announcement series to inform parents about the dangers of the syndrome, de Blasio said.

Three children have died across New York State with 102 PMIS cases reported as of Wednesday, according to Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

Cuomo revealed preliminary Health Department findings that show 60 percent tested positive for COVID-19, 71 percent were admitted into intensive care units, 19 percent were intubated and 43 percent remain hospitalized.

"These cases are all across the state," Cuomo said. "It's serious."

Fourteen states and five European countries are investigating the syndrome, according to Cuomo.

Cuomo has directed state hospitals to prioritize COVID-19 testing for children displaying symptoms and will report findings to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the governor said.

It does not appear the syndrome is contagious, but could show signs that a child has COVID-19 or another contagious infection, according to a Health Department PMIS fact sheet.

City officials urge parents to immediately seek medical help if their kids show persistent fever, rash, abdominal pain or vomiting. Parents can call 311 to get help finding a doctor.

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