Preventing AFM

What to know

  • AFM can be caused by viruses, including enteroviruses.
  • There is no specific action to take to prevent AFM, but you can take steps to prevent getting sick from viruses.
Mother helping child wash her hands

Overview

AFM can be caused by viruses, including enteroviruses. Enteroviruses are common and usually cause mild illness. We are working to learn why a small number of people develop AFM after having a virus.

Since we don't know what triggers AFM in a person, there is no specific action to take to prevent AFM. But you can take steps to prevent getting sick from a virus.

Help prevent getting and spreading a virus

You can do a lot to lower your and your child's risk of getting a virus:

You can lower the chance of spreading a virus:

  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, like toys, mobile devices, and doorknobs.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or upper shirt sleeve, not hands.
  • Stay at home if you or your child are sick.