CDC alerts clinicians to watch for AFM in children

Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a life-threatening condition needing immediate treatment, is expected to emerge this month and continue through November, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The uncommon but serious neurologic condition affects mostly children and can progress rapidly over the course of hours or days, leading to permanent paralysis and/or respiratory failure. Sudden limb weakness, especially during August through November, is sufficient cause to suspect AFM. Recent respiratory illness or fever and the presence of neck or back pain or any neurologic symptom should heighten concern. The CDC alert urges clinicians to quickly recognize symptoms and to hospitalize patients immediately. (CDC news release, 8/4/20)