Enterovirus D68 symptoms include coughing, breathing problems, and rash. Sometimes an infection with Enterovirus D68 is accompanied by fever or wheezing or more serious symptoms. Most cases are mild and last about a week, but if it is severe you may need to go to the hospital. Babies, children and teenagers especially get it. People with weak immune systems and those with serious chronic medical conditions are at greatest risk for serious complications. This virus is not new. Experts first discovered it in 1962. In the decades that followed, it seemed to affect only a very small number of people. That changed in 2014 when the CDC (the American RIVM) reported a national outbreak in the US. There are more than 100 other enteroviruses.
- What is Enterovirus D68?
- Symptoms of an infection with enterovirus D68
- Phenomena
- More serious complaints
- Who is most at risk?
- How can the virus spread?
- Treatment of Enterovirus D68
- Prevention
What is Enterovirus D68?
Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is one of more than 100 non-polio enteroviruses. This virus was first identified in California (United States) in 1962. It is a common cold virus that causes asthma-like symptoms. Usually enteroviruses are not fatal. At the end of August 2014, the virus emerged in Colorado, Denver (USA). Young people with asthma in particular who become victims can develop serious complaints from this respiratory virus. The virus caused a wave of infections not only in 2014 but also in 2016. In the Netherlands, dozens of patients were known to be infected with EV-D68 in 2016 and two patients became paralyzed.
Where was the virus first noticed (2014)
Legend
A . Colorado, Denver
Symptoms of an infection with enterovirus D68
Phenomena
Enterovirus D68 can cause mild to severe respiratory complaints.
Mild symptoms include:
- fever;
- running nose;
- to sneeze;
- cough;
- skin rash; and
- muscle strain.
More serious complaints
In more serious cases, it starts with a common cold that quickly develops into severe respiratory distress, shortness of breath and wheezing. Individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions who become infected with the virus are more likely to develop more severe symptoms. This respiratory virus can have serious consequences for them. It has even killed children, but generally Enterovirus 68 causes respiratory illness in children and does not result in death.
Who is most at risk?
Babies, children and teenagers have a greater risk than adults of becoming infected with enteroviruses such as EV-D68 and developing symptoms. This is because they have not yet been exposed to these types of viruses or have been exposed to a reduced extent and therefore have not yet built up immunity (protection). A child who has asthma is more at risk for severe respiratory illness if infected.
How can the virus spread?
Because Enterovirus D68 causes respiratory illness, the virus can be found in mucus, snot, and saliva of the infected person. The culprit spreads from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes or through a contaminated object. In the United States and Europe, people are more likely to become infected with enteroviruses in the summer and fall.
Treatment of Enterovirus D68
There is no specific treatment for people with respiratory disease caused by Enterovirus D68. There is no known vaccine or cure. There are no antiviral medications currently available for people who have become infected with the virus. The treatment depends entirely on how badly the child is ill. In case of severe respiratory complaints, it may be necessary to be admitted to hospital.
Prevention
The virus spreads through close contact with infected people. To prevent yourself from becoming infected, you must take the following measures:
- Wash your hands often and thoroughly with water and (disinfectant) soap for 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid physical contact such as kissing, hugging and do not share cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
- When coughing and sneezing, cover your mouth with a tissue or sleeve, not with your hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
- Stay home if you are sick.
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