Recently, a mysterious strain of the enterovirus has been causing concern among doctors and patients. It has polio-like symptoms, like muscle weakness. Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM), the strain of enterovirus, causes paralysis. This year, it has been on the rise. A week ago, the CDC reported that in August alone, 50 cases of AFM have been confirmed in 24 states. This is a drastic increase from that of 21 cases in all of 2015. Doctors fear that it could be the same virus that paralyzed 120 children in 2014. During flu season (August-October), enteroviruses are common, with most only causing respiratory infections or colds. However, they can cause inflammation of the brain if in the central nervous system. The results of AFM are debilitating, usually resulting in long-term paralysis. Since there are no vaccines for the strain of enterovirus, doctors call for good hygiene to limit its spread.
AFM seems to be on the rise. It is very concerning because it affects children the most. Doctors compare it to Polio, which causes similar problems like muscle weakness. Very dangerous pathogens are an issue, especially to children, because they do not practice as good of hygiene as adults. Parents need to instruct their children on proper hygiene protocol, particularly during the flu season. Also, if they do notice odd symptoms, they should see a doctor immediately because the virus can quickly do damage. Sometimes, only a few days can make the difference between a healthy life and paralysis. This can be connected to the polio outbreak in 1894 in Vermont. 132 people contacted the disease, and only in 1955 was an effective vaccine produced. Polio ravaged the nation for a century before it could be contained. Now, polio is obsolete, but people need to remain vigilant or else a similar epidemic could occur.
Source: http://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/mysterious-polio-illness-paralyzing-u-s-children-n658766
No comments:
Post a Comment