Accute Flacid Myelitis- mysterious virus transmitted condition in children

Accute Flacid Myelitis (AFM) is a neurologic disease that has symptoms similar to polio. Though scientists are still unsure of the actual mechanism of the disease, they have discovered that it is transmitted through viral transmission by enteroviruses and the West Nile Virus. The disease affects the gray matter of the spinal cord, resulting in weak muscles and reflexes. It is most commonly seen in children but may affect anyone. Unfortunately, there is no current treatment for AFM. Patients infected with AFM are treated for their specific symptoms.

In an update as of January 7, 2019, the CDC has recorded 7 new cases of AFM. The annual incidence of disease has exceeded any previously recorded number of cases since 2014, the first year AFM occurrence was tracked. The disease follows seasonal patterns, spiking in the fall months every other year. 39 out of 50 states have reported cases of AFM.

Though a relatively rare disease, AFM is a serious condition. The CDC recommends protecting children by maintaining up-to-date polio vaccinations and avoid mosquito bites through use of insect repellant.

The most recent outbreak report can be found here:  http://www.promedmail.org/

-Angela Wang

Sources

https://www.infectiousdiseaseadvisor.com/pediatric-illnesses/cdc-probe-acute-flaccid-myelitis/article/814632/

https://www.cdc.gov/acute-flaccid-myelitis/about-afm.html