Enterovirus D68 Update

Many of our patients have had concerns and questions about the Enterovirus D68 that has emerged in the midwest over the last few weeks.  At this time there has been a confirmed case in the state of Connecticut, and several cases in New Jersey and New York.  We hope that this update will help to answer any questions that you may have.

Mild symptoms of this illness may include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, and body and muscle aches. Patients who are very ill with Enterovirus D68 have difficulty breathing, and may or may not have fever or wheezing. Many of the children with severe illness caused by this virus have had had asthma or wheezing in the past.

As always, if your child is sick with a cold and is having trouble breathing, contact our office for an appointment.

It is important to keep in mind that other viruses that cause respiratory illness are circulating during this time of year. Not all respiratory illnesses occurring now are due to Enterovirus D-68.  In the United States, people are more likely to get infected with enteroviruses in the summer and fall, and Enterovirus-D68 infections are likely to decline later in the fall.

Enteroviruses are transmitted through close contact with an infected person, or by touching objects or surfaces that are contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. Steps that you and your family can take to prevent becoming ill are similar to those of most respiratory illnesses like the flu. Good hand hand washing is the best way to prevent this type of infection.

  • Washing hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers
  • Avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
  • Avoiding kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick
  • Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick

There is no vaccine or specific antiviral medication for enterovirus infections.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health is working with health care providers and local health departments to closely monitor for increases in respiratory illnesses in hospitals across the state.  At this time laboratory testing for this illness is not available to us in our office and will be done only for certain hospitalized patients.

Check the following link to the CDC website for more information:

http://www.cdc.gov/non-polio-enterovirus/about/EV-D68.html