Can children really get Kawasaki Disease from carpets that have been steam cleaned? In a nutshell - Kawasaki Disease, also known as Kawasaki Syndrome, is a rare children's illness. It can cause serious health complications if left untreated. Kawasaki Disease mostly affects children from ages 2 to 5; children over the age of 8 are rarely affected. Interestingly, Kawasaki Disease occurs more often in boys than girls, and most commonly occurs in children of Japanese or Korean descent, although children of any race can contract it.

The cause of Kawasaki Disease is still unknown, but scientists who have studied the disease believe the research and evidence strongly suggests an infectious agent such as a virus. Since little is known about the cause of this rare disease, many myths and unfounded opinions are published and rumours are spread. One such rumor is that "steam cleaning" carpets is the cause of the disease. There is NO scientific link between carpet cleaning and Kawasaki Disease. In fact, the countries where this disease most often occurs there is little or no carpeting in the home.

There is a lot of information on the web, but if you decide to research Kawasaki Disease on the internet visit only reputable medical websites. I hope this was helpful.

Michael Hull