ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Doctors and health professionals in New Mexico are warning dad and mom about a critical sickness that has been detected in New Mexico referred to as acute flaccid myelitis (AFM).

The New Mexico Department of Health confirmed that one case of AFM was in Doña Ana County. We know this affected person is 10 years previous. Health officials say consciousness and prevention are key to stopping any additional instances in our state.

“It is an illness that affects mostly children, it is similar for those who know historically what polio was like,” stated Dr. Chad Smelser, the state epidemiologist with the New Mexico Department of Health.

AFM causes irritation of the spinal twine, probably leading to paralysis.

Dr. Smelser with NM Health stated kids can get it shortly after a viral sickness.

“People might have fever, symptoms of a common cold and then a few days after or up to a week or so develop paralysis or the inability to use certain limbs,” he stated.

Before this most up-to-date case the state hasn’t seen a case of AFM since 2018. While it’s uncommon, it’s a critical situation and fogeys must know the signs.

“Acute flaccid myelitis presents with symptoms such as sometimes some arm leg neck pain, drooping eyelids, inability to use a limb, trouble moving eyes, a droopy mouth, and sometimes trouble swallowing,” Dr. Smelser stated.

The greatest approach to stop AFM is to clean your palms regularly and canopy your mouth and nostril when coughing or sneezing. Dr. Smelser stated there is no such thing as a treatment however there are supportive therapies like correct vitamin and therapies to enhance affected person outcomes.

“First and foremost, these can be scary symptoms that people see their child inflicted with, or family member and they want to get them in so they can be treated appropriately,” he stated.

If your youngster is sick, even with signs of a typical chilly, it’s essential they isolate at residence and don’t go to summer season camps or out in public.

There is a 24/7 hotline for health professionals to report instances to NM Health. That quantity is 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773).