Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a virus spreading around the country that has been causing respiratory illness, mainly in children. The illness can be mild, similar to a common cold with runny nose, coughing, and sometimes fever. However, EV-D68 can also cause more serious symptoms, such as wheezing and difficulty breathing. It can be particularly serious for children with asthma or other conditions that make breathing difficult. For these children, EV-D68 infections can result in hospitalization.
What you can do
There are currently no vaccines for preventing EV-D68 infections. Do the following to reduce the risk of getting infected with EV-D68:
§ Children and adults with asthma should take their medications as prescribed, have an asthma control plan with their health care provider for use if they get sick and when asthma worsens. Contact a healthcare provider promptly if symptoms worsen even after taking medication.
§ Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers.
See: Questions and answers on EV-D68 from Public Health – Seattle & King County.