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CDC expects 2020 outbreak of rare, life-threatening condition affecting children
https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/510471-cdc-expects-2020-outbreak-of-rare-life-threatening-condition-affectingThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned parents and doctors Tuesday that it expects another outbreak this year of a rare but life-threatening condition that mostly affects children.
Outbreaks of acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a serious neurologic condition that can cause paralysis, typically peak every two years between August and November.
The last peak occurred in 2018, when 238 cases were reported to the CDC.
While rare, parents and doctors should be vigilant to recognize symptoms of AFM because it progresses quickly over the course of hours or days, leading to permanent paralysis or life-threatening respiratory failure in previously healthy patients, according to the CDC.
“As we head into these critical next months, CDC is taking necessary steps to help clinicians better recognize signs and symptoms of AFM in children,” said CDC Director Robert Redfield.
*snip*
Sure, why not? 2020
3 replies
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= new reply since forum marked as read
I just looked and it's really horrible. Thank every power it's as rare as it is.
90% in young children, but teens also. Studies link causes to viruses, so Covid precautions may help. Most children had a respiratory illness or fever before they developed AFM. Sudden onset of arm or leg weakness, loss of muscle tone, and loss of reflexes are the most common symptoms.
Rush to doctor at first sign. There's no specific treatment 
, but important to act fast anyway.
