What You Need To Know
Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious neurologic condition that affects mostly children and typically presents with sudden limb weakness that can lead to permanent paralysis. Clinicians should consider AFM in patients with acute onset of flaccid weakness, especially between August and November, to ensure rapid hospitalization and prompt referral to care. Recent respiratory illness or fever and the presence of neck or back pain or any neurologic symptom should heighten suspicion of AFM. Clinicians are encouraged to report suspected cases of AFM to NJDOH.