WHAT IS ENTEROVIRUS D68?   

Enterovirus are common viral infections that occur in the US during the summer and fall months. It is not a new virus and was first identified in California in 1962.  This year in particular EV-D68 has been a common cause of respiratory illness in children .

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? 

Symptoms can be mild and can include fever, runny nose , sneezing, cough, and muscle aches.  More severe symptoms can involve wheezing and difficulty breathing especially in children with asthma.

HOW DO YOU GET THE VIRUS?  

The virus can be spread from an infected person's saliva, mucus or sputum when he or she coughs, sneezes, or touches a surface and passes on the virus.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR THIS ILLNESS?  

There are no specific treatments for this virus and it is mostly supportive. Those with more severe symptoms may need to be hospitalized.  At increased risk are asthmatic patients.  Talk to your doctor about your child's long term control medicine.  Make sure flu vaccines for the season has been given to the child.  And discuss use of short term asthma control medications in case of exposure or respiratory symptoms.

HOW WILL I KNOW IF MY CHILD HAS ENTEROVIRUS D68 OR THE COMMON COLD?

 eV-D68 can only be diagnosed by doing specific tests.  Symptoms can be similar to the common cold or even the flu.  See your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms.  Currently centers for disease control only recommend testing for patients with severe respiratory illness .

WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT MY CHILD FROM GETTING SICK?

1. Wash hands often for 20 seconds with soap and water

2. Avoid touching eyes, mouth, nose

3. Avoid close contact with sick persons ( kissing, hugging, sharing cups and utensils, etc)

4. Cover face with tissue or shirt sleeve ( not hands)  when coughing or sneezing

5. Clean and disinfect surfaces ( toys, door knobs, etc)

6. Stay home or keep sick child out of school if sick

Please feel free to share with friends and family.

So take care and stay healthy!