The discovery of a rare disease called acute flaccid myelitis in New Mexico has state health experts issuing a warning to parents.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Doctors and medical experts in New Mexico are warning parents about a serious illness called acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) that has been discovered in the state.
The New Mexico Department of Health has confirmed one case of AFM in Doña Ana County, in a patient who is known to be 10 years old. Health officials say awareness and prevention are key to stopping further cases in the state.
“This is a disease that primarily affects children and is similar to what polio was historically for those who know what it was like,” said Dr. Chad Smelser, state epidemiologist for the New Mexico Department of Health.
AFM causes inflammation of the spinal cord and can lead to paralysis.
Dr. Smelser of the New Mexico Department of Health said children can also become infected soon after contracting the virus.
“People may experience fever and cold symptoms, and after a few days or a week or so, symptoms such as paralysis or loss of movement in some limbs may appear,” he said.
Prior to this latest case, the state had not seen any cases of AFM since 2018. Although rare, it is a serious disease and parents should be aware of the symptoms.
“Acute flaccid myelitis sometimes presents with symptoms such as pain in the arms, legs or neck, drooping eyelids, loss of movement of the limbs, loss of eye movement, drooping mouth and sometimes difficulty swallowing,” Dr. Smelser said.
The best way to prevent AFM is to wash your hands frequently and cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Dr. Smelser says there is no cure, but there are supportive treatments, such as proper nutrition and therapy, that can improve patient outcomes.
“First of all, this is a frightening condition for people who have seen their children or family members affected and they want to get them to hospital so they can get the proper treatment,” he said.
If your child is sick, even if they have cold symptoms, it is important that they isolate at home and do not go to summer camp or public places.
There is a 24/7 hotline for medical professionals to report cases to NM Health. The number is 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773).