(What Parents Need to Know About the Mystery Virus – Enterovirus D68 by Colin Thomas first appeared in the Public Opinion Newspaper. To read it online, visit www.publicopiniononline.com.)
Tis the season for the common cold, but what if it’s something more? Colin Thomas, CRNP at Keystone Pediatrics, shares what parents need to know about this year’s mystery virus—Enterovirus D68.
What is Enterovirus D68?
Enterovirus D68 is an unusual strain of the common enterovirus. Most people infected with this virus have only mild cold symptoms such as runny nose, cough, and sneezing however some may experience difficulty breathing or wheezing. Some may also experience fever, body aches, and muscle aches. There is no vaccine to prevent this virus.
Who is at risk?
Infants, children, and teenagers are most at risk for Enterovirus D68 because they have not acquired immunity yet from previous exposures. Most healthy children who get the virus should recover swiftly and experience only mild illness. Children with asthma or other chronic health conditions are at risk for more severe illness.
How is it spread?
Just like a common cold, this virus is spread by contact with respiratory secretions when infected people cough, sneeze or touch contaminated surfaces. Washing hands is the best defense against this or any other illness. Use soap and water or hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes and cover your cough with your elbow or shirt sleeve.
Other considerations
Wash your hands often with soap and water before and after eating, after using the bathroom, and when your hands are visibly dirty. If at all possible, avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home if you are ill. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as light switches, doorknobs, and countertops, especially if someone at your home is ill.
Outlook
Most children who experience Enterovirus D68 have no complications and recover quickly with rest, the use of saline nasal drops, and Tylenol or Ibuprofen for fever control. The major complication of the virus is severe wheezing and not responding to treatments. If your child’s symptoms worsen or they are struggling for breath, seek immediate medical attention.
For more information about Keystone Pediatrics, visit www.keystonepediatrics.org/trustkeystonepeds.
This article contains general information only and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment or care by a qualified health care provider.
