Several Kids Develop a Rare Polio-like Illness Across US

Rare polio-like disease called Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) appears in the U.S again. This disease could affect a person’s nervous system; especially the spinal cord and may even lead to death if the complications are not controlled.

Children across multiple states in the US are being affected by a rare polio-like illness called Acute Flaccid Myelitis, or AFM. 38 cases of AFM has been reported until now.

The spike of this mysterious disease which made the headlines first in the year 2014 is being scrutinized by the Centers for Disease Control.

Here's What causes Acute Flaccid Myelitis
Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) causes Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM). The discovery of the cause for AFM aids in developing new preventive and treatment measures.

‘A rare polio-like disease known as Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) affects a person’s nervous system, especially the spinal cord. This condition is caused due to several factors such as viruses, environmental toxins, and genetic disorders.’
Read More..

This disease usually occurs in children up to 10 years of age, and it mainly affects the reflexes, muscular function, and spinal cord. According to CDC, AFM can cause paralysis, muscle weakness, respiratory failure or even death.

AFM impacts one out of each million in the United States per year. While the causes are unknown, the CDC does say that the genetic conditions, environmental toxins or viral infections can play a part in its development.

Source-Medindia

Increasing Public Awareness may Help Combat Infectious Diseases
Public awareness campaigns on spotting the signs and symptoms of infectious diseases and how to prevent them, play a key role in helping to stop the spread of infections.

Artificial Intelligence Blocks Infectious Diseases Spread
Newly developed artificial intelligence algorithm can locate, treat and block the spread of diseases like tuberculosis (TB), malaria and gonorrhea.

Infectious Disease Specialist may Help Patients Suffering from Severe Infections
A new study revealed how care from an infectious diseases speciality could be helpful for patients suffering from meningitis and other severe infections