Rare Polio-Like Disease Affecting Colorado Children
Acute Flaccid Myelitis is a polio-like disease that causes permanent paralysis in children, and it seems to be returning to several states in the US, including Colorado.
Health officials in Colorado so far in 2018 have reported 14 cases of AFM, and it is believed it comes from the Enterovirus, which causes severe neurological diseases in children.
Those who have been affected say the start of the illness was just like the common cold, with a runny nose and coughing but soon the child develops difficulty walking.
Center for Disease Control estimates one in one million children become affected with the disease, and yet 14 new cases have been reported this year alone.
The CDC identifies some of the symptoms as facial drooping, difficulty moving the eyes, drooping eyelids and slurred speech as well as difficulty swallowing.
While there is no specific treatment for this disease, some doctors will recommend physical therapy to try and regain some range of motion. Health professionals suggest inoculations can prevent the disease but also suggest you wash your hands often, as this can at least prevent the spread of any diseases you may have come in contact with.
If you are unsure, contact your local health professional.