Nebraska Ag Connection - Third Confirmed Case of Acute Flaccid Myelitis Reported

Nebraska Ag News Headlines

Third Confirmed Case of Acute Flaccid Myelitis Reported
Nebraska Ag Connection - 12/18/2018

A third confirmed case of acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a condition that causes muscle weakness, was reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The child, in the Douglas County Health Department jurisdiction, was hospitalized and later released.

The other two confirmed AFM cases are from the Sarpy/Cass health department jurisdiction. One additional reported case is still undergoing further testing at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). DHHS has shared information on recognizing, managing and reporting potential cases of AFM with health care providers and local health departments across Nebraska.

There is nationwide focus on AFM and state and local health departments are working with federal partners to help find answers. Every case reported undergoes a thorough investigation and extensive diagnostic testing which will help pinpoint exactly what's causing this disease and how it can be prevented.

Fast facts about AFM:

- AFM is a rare but serious condition that affects mostly children and generally causes sudden muscle weakness.

- Symptoms include sudden weakness in the arms or legs. Some people also experience drooping of the eyelids or face, difficulty moving eyes, slurred speech or difficulty swallowing.

- If parents see potential symptoms of AFM in their child, they should contact their health care provider promptly.

- Experts are working to determine the exact cause of AFM.

- There is no specific treatment for AFM or proven prevention strategy, but washing hands, covering your cough and staying home if you're sick can help avoid illness.

- People, especially parents, may be concerned about AFM. The CDC offers helpful resources at www.cdc.gov/acute-flaccid-myelitis/index.html.

- For Nebraska-specific case updates, go to dhhs.ne.gov/publichealth/Pages/AFM.aspx.

AFM is not a new condition but the increase in cases nationwide starting in 2014 is new. Since 2014, there have been a total of 491 confirmed cases of AFM in the U.S.

DHHS started surveillance for AFM in 2014 after cases appeared in Colorado and made it a reportable disease in 2016.

Other Nebraska Headlines