Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68)

Enteroviruses frequently cause mild illness in the summer and fall. This year, Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68), is a unique virus that shares features with the common cold viruses. Most infections are mild and self-limited and will last 5 to 7 days. A small group of children and adolescents, expecially those with asthma, are experiencing more severe respiratory symptoms with wheezing and shortness of breath. Note: for most cases, a test for EV-68 is not required because it will not affect the course of the illness.

No vaccines are available for EV-68 and there are not any antiviral medications that treat this virus.

If your child has a history of asthma:

Continue with your child's current asthma treatments
Make sure your son/daughter has his/her inhaler and other asthma medications at all times
If your child usually uses a controller medication (e.g an inhaled steroid) during the winter season or with colds, consider the possibility of starting the controller medication now.
Make sure your child's teacher or caregiver knows of your child's asthma

Call 911 if your child has severe symptoms:

Having serious trouble breathing (e.g. chest retracts or lips and/or fingers turn blue)
is unresponsive or difficult to arouse
Has slurred speech, paralysis, or severe headache

Make an appointment or call us if:

Your child's cold seems severe and/or he/she is uncomfortable with their breathing
Your child can't sleep due to the respiratory symptoms
Your child has ear pain or other significant pain that is not relieved with pain medication

Home Treatment

Frequent fluids, rest and fever management.
Frequent hand washing...cover your mouth when coughing
Avoid kissing, hugging and sharing drinks with people who are sick.
Disinfect surfaces in your house such as countertops and toys.