Six confirmed cases in Montreal of rare polio-like illness causing paralysis in children

toddler-in-parents-arms-pixabay-mymuhc - Six confirmed cases in Montreal of rare illness causing paralysis in children

Montreal has six confirmed cases of a rare polio-like disease causing paralysis in children, signalling a potential rise in the disease.

Called acute flaccid paralysis or myelitis (AFP/AFM), symptoms attack children less than 15 years of age and include drooping of the face or eyelids, slurred speech, a sudden onset of paralysis/weakness in any part of the body.

Though extremely rare according to Canada’s public health agency, there are about 60 potential cases of the illness every year.

Health Canada is closely monitoring the situation and recommending Canadians take the same precautions as during the flu season, including washing hands and wiping down surfaces.