the theory is it�*s a side effect of the body going into attack mode to fight the virus but mistakenly targeting other cells as well. children and young adults are able to produce a chemical called interferon, and it is this being released in large quantities which has the effect of dampening the viral infection, and one of the side—effects of this massive release of interferon into the system is that within a few days the sufferer then ends up with chilblains. chilblains are small, itchy swellings on the skin, often toes and heels. they�*re usually linked to cold weather, and often go away on their own. you can do a few things that can help them along. wearing woollen and cotton socks, keeping the feet warm. in some cases, you can use blood pressure tablets which can improve the circulation. covid toe seems to be less common now than in the first wave, it�*s thought people are less likely to get it if they have been vaccinated.