Public Health Advisory : Notice to Clinicians: Stay Vigilant for Cases of Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)
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Public Health Advisory
NJLINCS Health Alert Network
Distributed by the New Jersey Department of Health
| Subject: Public Health Advisory : Notice to Clinicians: Stay Vigilant for Cases of Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) |
| Date: 12/03/2025 15:44:06 |
| Official Message No.: 112537-12-3-2025-PHAD |
| Contact Info: Meredith Bagger | 609-826-5964 | Meredith.Bagger@doh.nj.gov |
| Susan Kehler | 609-826-5964 | Susan.Kehler@doh.nj.gov |
| Attachments: Yes |
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 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. Please see the attached document for additional information.