(Wampsville, NY – Sept. 17, 2014) Madison County Health Department’s Director of Community Health, Cheryl Geiler, explained, “Enterovirus infections are common, mostly occurring in the summer and fall. Most people infected with EV-D68 do not have symptoms or have mild respiratory symptoms. However, infants, children, and teenagers are most likely to become ill when infected with enteroviruses. That’s because they do not yet have immunity (protection) from previous exposures to these viruses.” Geiler announced that the New York State Department of Health’s laboratory has reported one case of Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) in Madison County.
EV-D68 can cause mild to severe respiratory illness. Symptoms can include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, and muscle aches. The virus can be found in secretions such as saliva, nasal mucus, and sputum. It is likely spread from person-to-person when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches surfaces.
There is no specific treatment for EV-D68 infections. Many infections will be mild and often go away after a few days, and only require taking over-the-counter medications for pain and fever. However, some people with severe respiratory symptoms may need to be hospitalized.
You can help to protect yourself from EV-D68 and other respiratory illnesses by:
Washing hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers
Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue
Avoid kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick
Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick
For more information about Enterovirus D68, visit: www.healthymadisoncounty.org.