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Enterovirus D68


The Basics


Written by the doctors and editors at UpToDate � �
What is enterovirus D68? " � Enterovirus D68 is a virus (or germ) that can cause an infection similar to the common cold. In some cases, it can cause severe trouble breathing. The virus, sometimes called "EV-D68, " � tends to affect children, not adults. � �
In 2014, there has been a jump in the number of cases of EV-D68 in the United States. This was first reported in Missouri and Illinois, but has affected other states, too. Some children have had so much trouble breathing that they have needed to be treated in the hospital. � �
What are the symptoms of EV-D68? " � Children with EV-D68 can have regular cold symptoms, like a runny nose, fever, or cough. But they can also have trouble breathing. They might feel like they cant get enough air, or like they have to work harder than usual to breathe. They might also have wheezing (noisy breathing). Children who already have asthma might be more likely to have serious breathing problems if they get infected with EV-D68. � �
In rare cases, children with EV-D68 can have serious problems with their muscles. The muscles can become weak, or stop working (called "paralysis " �). But, experts do not yet know why this happens, or if EV-D68 is the cause. � �
Should my child see a doctor or nurse? " � Yes. If your child is having trouble breathing, or if you think he or she might have EV-D68, call his or her doctor or nurse. The doctor or nurse can tell you if you should go to the emergency department. � �
You should also call a doctor or nurse right away if your child refuses to drink anything for a long time, acts confused or extremely tired, or stops responding to you. � �
Is there a test for EV-D68? " � Yes. There is a test for the EV-D68 virus. But most hospitals are not able to run the test themselves. Instead, they have to send samples (of mucus or saliva) to government-run labs for testing. As a result, it might take a little while to know for sure what the results are. � �
How is EV-D68 treated? " � Usually, EV-D68 is treated like a regular cold, and goes away on its own. There is no specific medicine used to treat it, and antibiotics do not help. In serious cases where the child is having trouble breathing, he or she might need treatment in the hospital. This can include giving the child extra oxygen, or using machines to help him or her to breathe. � �
If your child has mild cold symptoms, keep him or her comfortable. Children who are in pain can take nonprescription pain medicines such as acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin). Never give aspirin to a child younger than 18 years. In children, aspirin can cause a serious problem called Reye syndrome. � �
If your child is younger than 6 years, do NOT give him or her any cold medicines. These medicines are not safe for young children. � �
Can EV-D68 be prevented? " � Yes. You can do the following to help prevent the spread of this infection: � �
  • Make sure your child washes his or her hands often with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom.
  • Keep your home clean and disinfect tabletops, toys, and other things that a child might touch.
  • If you think your child might have EV-D68 or another contagious illness, keep him or her away from other people. Teach your child to cover his or her sneezes and coughs.
  • Avoid touching people who are sick, and do not share cups or eating utensils.
  • If your child has asthma, follow his or her doctor's instructions carefully. Be sure to give your child all the medicines the doctor prescribes. Children with asthma might be more likely to have breathing problems if they get infected with EV-D68.

There is no vaccine to prevent enterovirus D68. � �
For more information about EV-D68, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Web site at: www.cdc.gov/non-polio-enterovirus/about/EV-D68.html. � �
All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. � �
This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: Nov 04, 2014. � �
Topic 96986 Version 2.0 � �
Release: 22.8 - C22.206 � �
� � 2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �

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This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.The use of UpToDate content is governed by the UpToDate Terms of Use. � �2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �

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