National AFM Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National AFM Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National AFM Day is observed on September 23rd.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National AFM Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as cool facts you might want to know about National AFM Day.

📅 What day is National AFM Day 2024?

In 2024, National AFM Day is on Saturday, September 23rd. It is the 4th Saturday in September; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all fascinating details and facts about September 23, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National A.F.M. Day is observed on September 23 to bring attention to acute flaccid myelitis (A.F.M.), a serious spinal cord disorder that causes symptoms such as sudden paralysis of the arms or legs, decreased reflexes, trouble moving the eyes, speaking, and sometimes difficulty swallowing. Rarely, patients may experience numbness or discomfort. A.F.M. can lead to complications like difficulty breathing. In 2018, the cause of A.F.M. in most patients was still unclear. However, in recent years, over 90% of cases have been linked to a mild viral infection, such as an enterovirus.

📜 National AFM Day History

In October 2014, there were outbreaks of a condition called acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) in California and Colorado, suggesting that there were many cases across the United States. Doctors conducted thorough medical examinations and ruled out transverse myelitis and Guillain-Barré syndrome as potential causes. In Alabama and Kansas, physicians used an email list to discuss and compare similar cases. The largest number of AFM cases in the US at that time was reported in Colorado, with a total of 29 cases, 12 of which occurred between August and November of that year.

Since then, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has asked doctors to provide information on cases that meet specific criteria: patients diagnosed after August 1, 2014, who are no older than 21 years old, have sudden weakness in their limbs, and have a spinal cord lesion primarily in the gray matter as shown by MRI. In November 2018, the CDC reported a total of 286 cases in 31 states, with at least 116 cases confirmed. To investigate the causes of AFM and find potential solutions, the CDC has established a task force.

✅ National AFM Day Facts

🔖 It occurs mostly in children
Most cases of AFM have been found in children.

🔖 It is rare but life-threatening
Even though it is not commonly found, this illness has the potential to cause death and has affected a considerable amount of people in the United States over time.

🔖 It affects the nervous system
A.F.M. is a condition that attacks the nervous system, causing intense pain and greatly reducing the ability to move in different parts of the body.

👍 Why Is National AFM Day Important

National A.F.M. Day is a day of awareness. It draws much-needed attention to the AF/FM condition, treatment options, and the need for a cure.

This holiday provides an opportunity to raise funds for AFM research. Consider what you can do today to help.

The awareness campaign behind National A.F.M. Day is a worthy cause that seeks to address a pressing issue. One way we can encourage people to help find a solution is to raise awareness through donations and research funding.

🙂 How To Observe National AFM Day

⚡ Spread awareness on social media

⚡ Organize a community march
Demonstrate your solidarity with individuals affected by acute flaccid myelitis by coordinating a march within your local community. This event is sure to bring them joy and encouragement.

⚡ Donate to the A.F.M.A.
Use the hashtag #NationalAFMDay to share information on AFM on social media. Invite your friends and family to participate.

📅 When is National AFM Day?

Discover all 🔗 September holidays, including 🔗 Health and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about National AFM Day. So be sure to check back soon.