The South Dakota Department of Health is investigating the first case of acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) reported this year in the state.

The person being investigated is a young adult and has had a mild respiratory illness accompanied by fever before developing muscle weakness, for which she was hospitalized, according to a press release issued Monday after -midday.

"The AFM is a rare but serious condition, diagnosed most often in children, which affects the nervous system and weakens muscles. Most cases of MFA had a mild respiratory illness or fever consistent with a viral infection before developing muscle weakness, but no specific cause was identified, "said State Epidemiologist Dr. Joshua Clayton.

More: Health increases in South Dakota, according to the health office

AFM symptoms result in sudden muscle weakness in the arms or legs and may include sagging or weakening of the face, difficulty in moving the eyes, drooping eyelids and difficulty in swallowing or developing skin disorders. the speech.

In 2018, there were 106 confirmed cases of MFA in 29 states, according to the statement. These 106 confirmed cases are among the 252 total reports received by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the patients under investigation. More than 90% of MFA cases occurred in children under 18 years of age.

The Ministry of Health is working with the CDC to investigate and classify patients suspected of having AFD.

AFM can develop as a result of a viral infection and individuals can take some basic steps to prevent infections and stay healthy, such as washing their hands frequently to limit exposure to germs, coughing and sneezing, stay home in case of illness and keep up to date on vaccinations.

The health unit advises parents to see the clinician as soon as possible (for example, if they do not use arms) if their child has MFA symptoms.

For more information on the AFM, visit the Department's website.

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