What are the symptoms of AFM and how can it be prevented?

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Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon, but serious neurologic condition. It affects the nervous system, specifically the area of the spinal cord called gray matter, which causes the muscles and reflexes in the body to become weak. Acute flaccid myelitis might be caused by an infection with a virus known as an enterovirus. Respiratory illnesses and fever from enteroviruses are common, especially in children.

How do you treat AFM disease?

There is no established medical treatment or medication to cure AFM. At first, patients are treated with supportive care, including hospital admission, medications such as steroids, and treatments that include plasmapheresis (the removal, treatment, and return or exchange of blood plasma or components from and to the blood circulation) and or IVIG (Intravenous immunoglobulin). Physical therapy (a therapy that helps to manage movement and reduce pain in people with various conditions, like neurological diseases and traumatic injuries) and occupational therapy ( a branch of health care that helps people of all ages who have physical, sensory, or cognitive problems) is very important.

How do you prevent AFM?

There is no specific action to take to prevent AFM. However, it is always important to practice disease-preventive steps, such as washing hands frequently, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, covering coughs and sneezes, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.

I hope this information helps provide some insight into your symptoms.

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