Monitoring for Further Cases After Mysterious Cluster of Brain Infections Hit Children in Southern Nevada

A mysterious cluster of brain infections in children in Southern Nevada has led to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to work with local officials to monitor for any further cases.

What are these brain infections?

These brain infections have been identified as acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), which affects the spinal cord and gray matter of the brain. It is linked to viruses, particularly enteroviruses, which cause cold symptoms in many people but can lead to more serious illnesses in some others.

What do we know about the infected children?

As of November 3, 2021, the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services announced there were a total of 12 confirmed AFM cases in Clark County, Nevada. All of the children infected were under the age of 10 and had a history of a recent viral illness prior to showing symptoms.

What is being done to help these children?

The affected children have all received medical care and are undergoing therapy to help with their symptoms. Additionally, the CDC is working with local health officials to investigate the cause of the infections and to monitor for any further cases.

What can parents do to protect their children?

Parents can take steps to protect their children from enteroviruses and other illnesses that can lead to AFM, such as washing hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick people, and staying up to date on vaccinations.

Why is it important to monitor for further cases?

AFM is a rare but serious illness that can lead to long-term disability or even death. Monitoring for further cases is important to help prevent the spread of the illness and to identify the cause, which can help with developing effective treatments and prevention measures.

Summary:

The mysterious cluster of brain infections in children in Southern Nevada has been identified as acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), which affects the spinal cord and gray matter of the brain. All of the children affected are under the age of 10 and had a recent viral illness prior to showing symptoms. The CDC and local officials are working to investigate the cause of the infections and to monitor for any further cases. Parents can take steps to protect their children from enteroviruses and other illnesses that can lead to AFM. Monitoring for further cases is important to help prevent the spread of the illness and to identify the cause.

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