RFP Staff
♦ The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is keeping a close watch on a dangerous new children’s virus suspected now in North Carolina: Enterovirus D68 or EV-D68. This fast hitting respiratory disease has stricken hundreds of children in 10 states. In some instances EV-D68 requires hospitalization when it triggers asthma attacks.
Enteroviruses cause a variety of illnesses such as the common cold and diarrhea. Symptoms may include fever, runny nose, cough, skin rash, mouth blisters, as well as body and muscle aches. Children with preexisting asthma may be at risk for having asthma attacks due to EV-D68 inflammatory process that can quickly set off asthma.
In certain cases EV-D68 can be deadly. Children in Colorado and Missouri became critically ill from its respiratory attack.
According to the CDC there are no specific treatments for the EV-D68 virus. No anti-viral medications are presently available for EV-D68 infections. No vaccines are on the market.
In the main most EV-D68 infections will be mild and will require only symptomatic treatment. Children with severe respiratory illness brought on by EV-D68 will require hospitalization and intensive supportive therapy.
To prevent the EV-D68 virus:
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers.
• Avoid kissing, hugging, and sharing glasses or eating utensils with people who are ill.
• Stay home when feeling ill, and obtain consultation from your health care provider.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
For more about EV-D68 visit the Center of Disease Control’s website:
http://www.cdc.gov/non-polio-enterovirus/about/EV-D68.html?s_cid=cdc_homepage_whatsnew_001
