Did You Know?
Did You Know? 
is a feature from the Center for State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Support to inform your prevention activities. We invite you to read, share, and take action!
August 7, 2020
- Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon but life-threatening neurologic condition that affects mostly children and can lead to permanent paralysis. The most common symptom of AFM is limb weakness.
- AFM is a medical emergency. In 2018, most patients with AFM were hospitalized, and 1 in 4 hospitalized patients required a ventilator—according to CDC’s latest Vital Signs report.
- Pediatricians and medical providers in emergency departments and urgent care centers should be prepared to quickly recognize the symptoms of AFM and immediately hospitalize affected patients.
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Page last reviewed: August 7, 2020
Content source: Center for State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Support