Acute Flaccid Myelitis Awareness

Abstract

Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) awareness is expanding in pediatric intensive care units(PICU) around the world. The underlying etiology and protocols of management remain unclear to many medical professionals today. As of 2014, a correlation to the disease is associated with an enterovirus pathology. Unfortunately, its presentation can be easily missed and lead to detrimental outcomes. The mysterious polio-like disease leaves the patient in a state of paralysis, frequently requiring feeding and ventilatory support. With the lack of scientific knowledge and surveillance in the hospital, clinicians and nurses feel guilt in not knowing if AFM was missed. As new research continues to develop, the healthcare system and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) require a sustained pursuit to cure and prevent this devastating illness from affecting the lives of innocent children. The author intends to inform and educate individuals on the need for immediate awareness of AFM and protocols for treatment to be established with its known etiologies thus far.