AFM is a condition that affects the nervous system and causes the muscles and reflexes in the body to become weak. While anyone at any age can get AFM, it mainly affects children. The Health Department is educating providers on what to look for and what actions to take if a patient comes in with symptoms consistent with AFM.
Symptoms
Most people will have sudden onset of arm or leg weakness and loss of muscle tone and reflexes. Some people will also have:
- Facial droop/weakness
- Difficulty moving eyes
- Drooping eyelids
- Difficulty swallowing or slurred speech
Onset of weakness is rapid, within hours to a few days.
Many patients had a mild respiratory illness or fever in the 1-2 weeks before developing AFM.
If you suspect AFM, please contact your health care provider.
CDC Resources for Parents and the Public
How to Spot Symptoms of Acute Flaccid Myelitis in Your Child
Acute Flaccid Myelitis Fact Sheet for Patients*
*As of November 2020, the AFM position statement has been updated. Revised guidance including these updates will be posted when available.
When reporting persons meeting the criteria for AFM, please make sure they meet the following criteria: acute onset of flaccid limb weakness AND an MRI showing a spinal cord lesion in at least some gray matter.* The Health Department asks providers to voluntarily report suspect AFM cases by calling 802-863-7240.
CDC resources for the Health Care Providers
FAQ by Clinicians and Health Departments*
Acute Flaccid Myelitis: Interim Considerations for Clinical Management
*As of November 2020, the AFM position statement has been updated. Revised guidance including these updates will be posted when available.
Visit the CDC AFM Investigation page to see a US map with the most recent case counts for each state. This map is updated every Monday.