Everything you need to know about Kawasaki disease after Mrs Hinch’s son is diagnosed

Mrs Hinch has revealed that her eldest son Ronnie aged three, has been diagnosed with Kawasaki disease after being rushed to hospital over ten days ago. 

The clean-fluencer, real name Sophie Hinchliffe, gave her fans an update by posting a picture of her son looking well and smiling happily on Instagram along with a detailed caption on Monday evening. 

Mrs Hinch wrote “'FINALLY! We can go home now Mummy' Ron, you are SO brave, SO strong, SO loved and just a beautifully unique darling boy. We have spent the past 10 days living what felt like a real life nightmare. But I just wanted to thank you all for so many kind messages and update you all.”

The influencer who is also mum to youngest son Lennie, went on to explain in the post what the disease is, what the symptoms are and to thank the “incredible team at Broomfield hospital, St Marys and Great Ormond Street.” 

Sophie has said she will do all that she can to raise awareness of the disease. 

Here’s everything you need to know about Kawasaki disease from what it is, symptoms to look out for and what to do if you think your child may be affected according to NHS guidelines. 

What is Kawasaki disease?

Kawasaki disease is a condition that mainly affects children under the age of five. It's also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome.

What causes Kawasaki disease? 

The cause of Kawasaki disease isn't fully understood, but a child may be more likely to develop it if they inherit certain genes from their parents. It is also believed to be an autoimmune response to an infection. Around eight in every 100,000 children develop Kawasaki disease in the UK each year.

What are the symptoms for Kawasaki disease?

It's characteristic symptoms include a rash, swollen glands, dry or cracked lips, red fingers or toes and red eyes. Anyone who notices symptoms in a child is told to speak to their GP or call 111 urgently.

How is Kawasaki disease treated?

It is always treated in hospitals through an intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), a solution of antibodies, and aspirin are the two main medicines used.

How does it take to recover from Kawasaki disease?

Children can make a full recovery within six to eight weeks, however some complications can develop from the condition, including with the heart.

Is Kawasaki disease fatal?

Without treatment, around 1 in 4 children with Kawasaki disease get heart complications. This can be fatal in about 2 to 3% of cases.

Help and Support

The NHS recommends that you speak to a GP, call NHS 111 or 999 if it is an emergency.

There are also support groups for families including The Kawasaki Support Group and Societi, The UK Foundation for Kawasaki Disease and can provide you with more information and advice about your child's condition.