Parents Beware: Surprising COVID-19 Symptom

Parenting in a pandemic can be challenging and that means adhering to social distancing recommendations and contacting your doctor if your child has symptoms. We know shortness of breath, cough, and fever are some of the most common symptoms of COVID-19, but there is an unanticipated symptom that parents are now learning about, called "COVID toes." Today Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Glen Burnie, Maryland is sharing some information regarding this condition.

Back in the early part of March, a small study conducted in Italy revealed skin problems on COVID-19 patients and found that about 20% of the people in the relatively small study had a dermatological problem. Early data suggests children are experiencing this symptom of COVID-19, sometimes without any other symptoms.

Then, a teenage boy in Italy was treated for lesions on his foot, and his pediatrician found that a couple of days later he exhibited the more common symptoms of the COVID-19 virus. Now, doctors around the world are aware of and documenting instances of this condition, referred to as "COVID toes."

Here’s what parents need to know.

Accounts of pediatric cases of COVID toes are limited right now and most cases are being found in adult patients. But if your child develops a rash or lesion on their hands or feet you should call your doctor and watch for other COVID-19 symptoms such as a fever.

These painful lesions can appear as purple or blue bumps and feel warm to the touch.

The bottom line is that COVID toes are not an online fabrication and are, in fact, something parents should watch for. If you or your children show symptoms of the COVID-19 virus, call your doctor immediately.

From our family to yours, we hope you’re staying healthy and in good spirits. If you’re experiencing any problems with your feet contact the office of Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Anne Arundel County, Maryland to schedule a consultation.