Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM): A Concise Guide
What is AFM? Acute Flaccid Myelitis is an uncommon yet severe neurological disorder impacting the spinal cord and is characterized by rapid onset of limb weakness, diminished muscle tone, and reflexes. Predominantly affecting children, AFM can be preceded by a mild respiratory illness or fever from a viral infection weeks prior.
Urgent Medical Attention Symptoms of AFM can worsen swiftly, necessitating immediate medical intervention. Hospital care may be essential, with some cases requiring mechanical ventilation for respiratory support.
Historical Outbreaks Tracked since 2014 in the U.S., notable AFM outbreaks occurred in 2016 and 2018, typically between August and November.
Recognizing Symptoms Common symptoms include:
- Abrupt weakness in arms or legs
- Rapid loss of muscle tone
- Quick loss of reflexes
Additional symptoms may involve:
- Eye movement difficulties or droopy eyelids
- Facial weakness
- Trouble swallowing or slurred speech
- Pain in limbs or back
Less common symptoms:
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Urinary retention
Severe cases can lead to respiratory failure from weakened breathing muscles, extreme body temperature fluctuations, and blood pressure instability.
When to Consult a Doctor Seek prompt medical care if you or your child exhibit any of the aforementioned symptoms.
Possible Causes AFM may stem from an enterovirus infection. While such infections are widespread, particularly in children, and usually resolve on their own, it’s uncertain why some lead to AFM.
Risk Factors Young children are the primary demographic affected by AFM.
Long-Term Effects The muscle weakness induced by AFM can persist for an extended period.
Preventive Measures While there’s no definitive prevention for AFM, reducing viral infection risks can help. Protective steps include:
- Regular handwashing with soap and water
- Avoiding face touching with unclean hands
- Keeping distance from ill individuals
- Sanitizing commonly touched objects
- Properly covering coughs and sneezes
- Ensuring ill children remain at home
By following these guidelines, you can help safeguard against viral infections that may lead to AFM.
