Here’s What We Know About The Polio-Like Illness In Children That Has Health Experts Baffled
This year, 62 confirmed cases of the illness exist among children and others are under investigation, according to federal health authorities. Scientists don't know what causes acute flaccid myelitis, but they are urging people to avoid getting mosquito bites. Paralysis comes on suddenly and can be permanent.
Los Angeles Times:
What Is AFM? Everything You Need To Know About The Polio-Like Virus Suddenly Affecting Children Across The U.S.
It’s mysterious, it’s dangerous and it’s got parents on edge from coast to coast.It’s a medical condition called acute flaccid myelitis, or AFM. The disease causes sudden, unexplained paralysis, usually in children. Its resemblance to polio has caused the public to take notice. Federal health officials have confirmed 62 cases of AFM in the U.S. this year, and 65 more are under investigation. There are four suspected cases in California, according to the state’s Department of Public Health. (Karlamangla, 10/17)