This polio-like-disease called Acute Flaccid Myelitis is a serious threat, especially to the children. It attacks the nervous system and spinal cord that results in paralysis and death. Though there is no medical confirmation on how it cause CDC research said that AFM could be due to a variety of germs and several viruses. According also to the research, 89 people in 33 states were confirmed to have AFM. Symptoms ofthis condition include colds, dizziness, numbness, facial weakness and difficulty in moving arms and legs. Because of the severe damage it might cause, Dr. Kevin Messacar, a pediatric infectious disease physician and researcher at Children's Hospital Colorado said, "This is a very rare condition, but I think it's important that we take it seriously because it does have long-term and potentially disabling consequences." The situation of Hayden Werdal makes that statement right. According to Seattle Times, the 15-year-old-boy can only move his right hand, wiggle his left thumb, kick his right leg a bit and bend the left one. That's the only motion he can do for two years because of AFM. It all start in a common respiratory illness until to this worse situation. Aside from having difficulties in moving, Hayden's family struggling with the expenses that AFM caused. To support his medical needs and to continue his therapy his parents organize fundraising.
Though there are no confirmed ways to prevent this polio-like-disease, Dr. Manisha Patel, AFM team lead at the CDC and a practicing pediatrician said to 'practice the general prevention strategies.' It includes washing the hands with soap and water and getting vaccinated. Other preventions we do according to CDC are avoiding sick people, using disinfectant and by using mosquito repellant. These practices may help children and teenagers to fight this deadly enemy, AFM.
