Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious illness that has recently been detected in New Mexico. Health professionals in the state are urging parents to be aware of its symptoms and take necessary precautions to prevent its spread.
The New Mexico Department of Health confirmed one case of AFM in Doña Ana County, affecting a 10-year-old patient. This is the first time the state has seen a case of AFM since 2018. Dr. Chad Smelser, the state epidemiologist, described AFM as an illness that mostly affects children and can cause paralysis.
Children can develop AFM shortly after a viral illness, exhibiting symptoms such as fever, common cold symptoms, and then paralysis or the inability to use certain limbs. Prior to this recent case, the state had not seen a case of AFM since 2018. Although rare, AFM is a serious condition, and parents should be aware of its symptoms, including arm, leg, neck pain, drooping eyelids, limb weakness, eye movement issues, droopy mouth, and swallowing difficulties.
While there is no cure for AFM, supportive treatments such as proper nutrition and therapies can improve patient outcomes. If a child displays symptoms of a common cold or other viral illnesses like meningitis or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), it is important to isolate them at home and avoid public places like summer camps. Health professionals can report cases of AFM to NM Health through a 24/7 hotline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773).
Awareness and prevention are crucial in stopping the spread of AFM in New Mexico. Parents should ensure their children receive vaccinations for polio and other diseases that can cause similar conditions. Additionally, practicing good hygiene habits such as washing hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick individuals can also help prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
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