What Do You Need to Know About Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)?
The recent outbreak of acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) in the United States has left many parents wondering what this condition is and how to protect their children from it.
Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but severe condition that affects the nervous system, specifically the spinal cord area called grey matter. While the cause of AFM is not entirely understood, it is believed to be linked to viruses, such as poliovirus, West Nile virus, and adenoviruses. In some cases, AFM has been associated with certain enteroviruses (viruses that primarily affect the gastrointestinal tract).
The first AFM outbreak was identified in 2014, and since then, there have been sporadic cases reported in the United States. However, in 2018, there was another significant outbreak with 233 confirmed cases.
It most often affects children and can be caused by a viral infection. Parents should be aware of the symptoms of this condition and measures to protect their children.
What are the symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis (AFM)?
The most common symptom of acute flaccid myelitis is a sudden onset of limb weakness. Other symptoms may include:
- Difficulty moving the eyes or facial drooping
- Difficulty swallowing
- Slurred speech
- Weakness in other muscles, such as those that control head and neck movement
- Severe limb weakness that prevents children from using their arms or legs
- Loss of muscle tone and reflexes in the affected limbs
- Respiratory distress, which may require ventilator support
If you or your child has any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
What are the risk factors for acute flaccid myelitis (AFM)?
Risk factors for developing AFM include:
- Age: Children aged 4 years or younger are most at risk for developing AFM.
- Viral infections: Infection with certain viruses, including poliovirus, West Nile virus, and adenoviruses, can lead to AFM.
- Environmental toxins: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as pesticides, may increase the risk of developing AFM.
- Autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus and Guillain-Barré syndrome, can increase the risk of developing AFM.
In addition, AFM has been associated with a rare condition called transverse myelitis, which is characterized by inflammation of the spinal cord.
How is acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) diagnosed?
AFM is diagnosed based on symptoms, physical examination, and testing. Detailed patient history is taken to identify potential exposure to viruses or other illnesses. A neurologic exam is performed to assess muscle weakness, reflexes, and paralysis. Imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scan of the spine, may be ordered to look for abnormalities in the spinal cord.
What is the treatment for acute flaccid myelitis (AFM)?
There is no specific treatment for AFM, but some patients may require hospitalization for supportive care in which they will receive:
- Respiratory support, if needed
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy to help with activities of daily living
How can I protect my kids from acute flaccid myelitis (AFM)?
A good hygiene practice may help lower the risk of contracting the virus that is believed to cause AFM. These include:
-Washing your hands often
-Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
-Avoiding contact with animals, especially if they are sick or have diarrhoea
If you or your child develop symptoms of AFM, such as weakness in the arms or legs, seek medical attention immediately.
