Several University of Colorado School of Medicine experts on acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) have been interviewed in recent news reports about an increase in AFM cases nationwide, including in Colorado.
AFM is a devastating polio-like virus that strikes children, causing weakness in the limbs and other muscle groups. In the most severe cases it can cause respiratory failure.
This week, outlets including CNN, U.S. News & World Report, Science and Wyoming Public Media quoted Samuel Dominguez, MD, PhD, associate professor, pediatrics-infectious diseases; Kenneth Tyler, MD, Louise Baum Endowed Professor and Chair of the Department of Neurology; and Kevin Messacar, MD, assistant professor, pediatrics-pediatric hospital medicine.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there have been 38 confirmed cases of AFM in 16 states as of Sept. 30. The numbers of cases appear to be climbing, with several additional cases being reported in Colorado, Illinois, Washington and Minnesota.
Here are a few of the recent stories:
Wyoming Public Media, Oct. 17
Colorado is home to mysterious neurological disease, and researchers tracking it
U.S. News & World Report, Oct. 16
CDC warns of polio-like virus striking more U.S. kids
Science, Oct. 16
United States reports new cases of puzzling, polio-like disease that strikes children
CNN, Oct. 13