The Ministry of Health in Gaza has issued an urgent humanitarian appeal to the international community, international institutions, and humanitarian organizations, citing “catastrophic and health conditions” experienced by residents. These conditions include water pollution, the collapse of sanitation services, waste accumulation, the spread of infectious diseases, malnutrition, and poor immunity. The Ministry is calling for immediate intervention to halt the aggression, rescue the collapsing health system, and improve living conditions in the Gaza Strip.
Understanding Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP)
Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) is a clinical syndrome characterized by the sudden onset of weakness or paralysis in the limbs, frequently enough accompanied by a decrease in muscle strength. Children are particularly vulnerable to AFP, which can affect the muscles responsible for breathing and swallowing.
Causes of Acute Flaccid Paralysis:
- Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM): This is a form of inflammation of the spinal cord that leads to muscle weakness.
- Viral Infections: Common culprits include poliovirus, enterovirus D68, and adenoviruses.
- guillain-Barrรฉ Syndrome: This is a neurological disorder where the immune system attacks the nerves.
- Other Causes: These can include transverse myelitis (inflammation across the spinal cord) and food poisoning.
Symptoms of AFP:
Symptoms may include weakness or paralysis in the arms and legs, changes in nerve responses, difficulty moving the eyes or drooping eyelids, trouble swallowing or speaking, and weakness in facial muscles.
Treatment and Prevention:
- Currently, there is no specific cure for AFM or AFP. Treatment is focused on managing symptoms and may involve physical and occupational therapy, immunoglobulin therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or plasma exchange. Some individuals may require mechanical ventilation.
- Prevention strategies include practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing, avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands, limiting close contact with sick individuals, frequent cleaning of surfaces, and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. vaccination against polio is also a crucial preventive measure for children.