Enterovirus D68

Enterovirus D68: An Overview

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a non-polio enterovirus that can cause respiratory illness in children and adults. It is one of more than 100 non-polio enteroviruses and is part of the Picornaviridae family of viruses.

EV-D68 was first identified in 1962 and has been associated with outbreaks of respiratory illness in several countries, including the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. In the United States, EV-D68 was first identified in 2014 and caused a large outbreak of respiratory illness in children.

Symptoms of Enterovirus D68

EV-D68 can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Runny nose
• Cough
• Wheezing
• Difficulty breathing
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

In severe cases, EV-D68 can lead to pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and other serious respiratory complications.

Transmission of Enterovirus D68

EV-D68 is spread through contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person. These droplets can be released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. EV-D68 can also be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.

Diagnosis of Enterovirus D68

EV-D68 can be diagnosed with a laboratory test that detects the virus in respiratory secretions.

Treatment of Enterovirus D68

There is no specific treatment for EV-D68. Treatment is supportive and includes measures to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Prevention of Enterovirus D68

There is no vaccine to prevent EV-D68 infection. However, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of infection, including:

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoiding touching the eyes, nose, and mouth
• Staying home from school or work if sick
• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue
• Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with the virus

Complications of Enterovirus D68

In severe cases, EV-D68 can lead to pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and other serious respiratory complications. These complications can be life-threatening, especially in children and people with underlying health conditions.

Prognosis of Enterovirus D68

Most people who are infected with EV-D68 will recover fully within a few weeks. However, some people may experience long-term health problems, such as asthma or other respiratory conditions.

Epidemiology of Enterovirus D68

EV-D68 is a common cause of respiratory illness in children and adults. Outbreaks of EV-D68 have been reported in several countries around the world. The virus is typically most active during the late summer and early fall months.

Research on Enterovirus D68

Research on EV-D68 is ongoing. Scientists are working to learn more about the virus, including how it spreads, how it causes disease, and how to prevent and treat it.

Conclusion

EV-D68 is a common cause of respiratory illness in children and adults. The virus can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe. In severe cases, EV-D68 can lead to pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and other serious respiratory complications. There is no specific treatment for EV-D68, but supportive care can help to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. There is no vaccine to prevent EV-D68 infection, but there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of infection.