Prevention

There's no specific way to prevent acute flaccid myelitis. However, preventing a viral infection can help reduce the risk of developing acute flaccid myelitis.

Take these steps to help protect yourself or your child from getting or spreading a viral infection:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or upper shirt sleeve.
• Keep sick children at home.