Kawasaki disease

Symptoms of Kawasaki disease

The characteristic symptoms of Kawasaki disease are a high temperature that lasts for more than five days, with:

• a rash
• swollen glands in the neck
• dry, cracked lips
• changes in the hands and feet (redness and swelling at the start, peeling of skin in fingers and toes later)
• red eyes

After a few weeks the symptoms become less severe, but may last longer.

When to see your GP

You should see your GP if your child is unwell and has the above symptoms.

If your baby is less than six months old, you should see your GP as soon as possible.

The symptoms of Kawasaki disease can be similar to those of other conditions that cause a fever in children.

Kawasaki disease can't be prevented.

Most children make a full recovery within six to eight weeks if it's diagnosed and treated quickly.

It's thought Kawasaki disease is caused by an infection. The exact cause isn't fully understood.

Treating Kawasaki disease

Kawasaki disease is usually treated in hospital as it can sometimes lead to serious complications.

The health professional looking after your child’s care will discuss treatment options with you.

It's best if treatment begins as soon as possible, ideally within 10 days of the symptoms starting.

The sooner treatment starts, the quicker the recovery time and the less risk there is of complications developing.

Complications of Kawasaki disease

Kawasaki disease causes the blood vessels to become inflamed and swollen. This can lead to complications in the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart (coronary arteries).

Up to five per cent of children with Kawasaki disease experience complications with their heart.

Complications can be fatal in about one per cent of cases.

More useful links

• Kawasaki disease
• How to use your health services