What is Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy linked to the flu?

It's a rare condition where the flu causes the brain to swell, leading to severe neurological symptoms and potential fatality.

How common is Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy in children?

This condition is very rare, with survival rates for children reportedly as low as 10% according to medical professionals.

Can the flu cause seizures and brain swelling in children like Althea?

Yes, while rare, the flu can trigger serious complications such as seizures and Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy, causing the brain to swell.

Home / Health / Miracle Recovery: 4-Year-Old Survives Rare Flu Complication

Miracle Recovery: 4-Year-Old Survives Rare Flu Complication

10 Jan

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Summary

A 4-year-old girl contracted a rare brain swelling illness from the flu.
Doctors believed only 10% of children survive this specific condition.
She spent Christmas in the ICU, facing uncertain survival.

Miracle Recovery: 4-Year-Old Survives Rare Flu Complication

A young girl in Massachusetts has made a remarkable recovery after contracting Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy, a rare and severe brain inflammation condition associated with the flu. The 4-year-old's health took a drastic turn in December, progressing rapidly from flu symptoms to a seizure and requiring intensive care. Her family faced an unimaginably difficult period, with doctors initially uncertain about her survival.

Doctors at Mass General Hospital diagnosed the condition, which causes the brain to swell, leaving the child in critical condition. She spent nearly two weeks in the ICU, including Christmas, while her family held onto hope. Her mother described the situation as sudden, with her daughter going from healthy to near death's door within a day. The family received support from their community, including a GoFundMe that raised over $12,000.