C.O. officials on alert as rare virus appears around U.S.

A rare virus is popping up around the country, it mimics symptoms of polio, and a stroke. The virus is called “acute flaccid myelitis,” and it’s become a nationwide problem.

The Centers for Disease Control have now confirmed 62 cases in 22 states.

Dr. Terri Mucha, the medical director at the Family Choice Urgent Care in Bend, said Tuesday the virus has appeared primarily in Colorado and Minnesota, but a recent case was just confirmed in Washington state.

She said the virus comes on as a secondary illness after patients get over a cold or the flu. It’s also primarily seen in children under 10.

Mucha said each year, new viruses like this are popping up and getting harder to treat.

“In all of my years doing this, it seems like our viruses are getting smarter every year,” Mucha said. “So I think even something like this really shows the importance of getting a flu shot, and keeping all of your kids up to date on their vaccinations. Because you are trying to give them the best shot to not have any of these complications that come from these superpower viruses.”

The virus has not yet been reported in Oregon, but Mucha said it could show up here.

She recommended you wash your hands and get a good night’s sleep as we head into cold and flu season to prevent it.

At this point, there’s no vaccine for AFM. Symptoms include weakness, slurred speech or lethargy.

She said the sooner you get to a doctor, the better your child’s chance of fighting off the virus.