National AFM Day

National AFM Day takes place each year on September 23. In 2026, this date falls on a Wednesday. This fixed date serves as a critical opportunity to raise awareness about acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a rare but serious neurologic condition that affects the spinal cord and can cause rapid muscle weakness and paralysis. The day was established to educate the public and healthcare providers about the symptoms, possible causes, and the urgent need for research into this poorly understood illness.

History of National AFM Day

Acute flaccid myelitis first drew national attention in 2014, when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) began tracking an unusual increase in cases of sudden limb weakness in children. That year, 120 confirmed cases were reported across the United States, peaking between August and November. Public health officials soon recognized that these clusters followed a pattern similar to outbreaks of enteroviruses, which are believed to trigger the condition. As more families and doctors reported cases, advocacy groups and medical organizations pushed for a dedicated day to highlight the disease and its devastating effects.

National AFM Day was created to fill a gap in public awareness. Unlike better-known conditions, AFM remains rare, with confirmed cases numbering in the dozens each year, but its consequences can be severe, including permanent paralysis and long-term disability. The day is observed annually on September 23, a date that falls near the typical peak season for AFM cases. By focusing attention on the condition each fall, organizers hope to encourage early recognition, prompt reporting to health authorities, and increased funding for research into causes, treatments, and prevention.

Why is National AFM Day important?

AFM is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention, yet many parents and even some healthcare providers are unfamiliar with its early signs. The hallmark symptoms—sudden arm or leg weakness, loss of muscle tone, and decreased reflexes—can be mistaken for other conditions, delaying critical care. National AFM Day helps close that knowledge gap by spreading clear, actionable information about what to watch for and when to seek help.

Beyond individual awareness, the day underscores the broader need for continued surveillance and research. Since 2014, the CDC has confirmed 797 cases of AFM across 49 states and the District of Columbia, with most cases occurring in children. The cause is not yet fully understood, and no specific treatment or vaccine exists. Raising the profile of AFM can drive funding for studies that explore viral triggers, genetic susceptibility, and rehabilitation strategies, ultimately improving outcomes for those affected.

• Recognizes a rare but serious condition that often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed in its early stages.
• Encourages prompt medical evaluation for sudden limb weakness, which can make a difference in recovery.
• Supports families and survivors by building a community of shared experience and resources.
• Highlights the need for research into causes, prevention, and effective treatments.
• Strengthens public health surveillance by reminding healthcare providers to report suspected cases to the CDC.

How to Celebrate National AFM Day

Observing National AFM Day is about spreading knowledge and supporting those affected by the condition. One of the most impactful actions is to learn the symptoms of AFM—sudden arm or leg weakness, difficulty swallowing, drooping eyelids, and neck or back pain—and share that information with friends, family, and social media followers. Many organizations, including the CDC and advocacy groups, provide free fact sheets, videos, and infographics that make it easy to educate others without overwhelming them with medical jargon.

Another meaningful way to observe the day is to donate to or volunteer with nonprofit organizations that fund AFM research, assist families with medical expenses, or advocate for better policies. Even small contributions can help accelerate the search for answers. For healthcare professionals, the day is an ideal opportunity to review the latest clinical guidelines on diagnosing and managing AFM, and to ensure that emergency departments and pediatric clinics are prepared to recognize the condition quickly.

• Share verified information about AFM symptoms and reporting on social media using the hashtag #NationalAFMDay.
• Contact your local news station or write a blog post to raise awareness in your community.
• Support AFM research by donating to organizations like the CDC Foundation or the Acute Flaccid Myelitis Association.
• Talk to your pediatrician about the condition and ask if they have seen cases in your area.
• Reach out to a family affected by AFM to offer emotional support or help with daily tasks.

National AFM Day Dates