The first case of enterovirus D68, which is associated with severe respiratory illness, has been reported in Nevada, said both the Centers for Disease Control and the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health on Wednesday.
The reported case is in Washoe County.
From mid-August to Dec. 4 the CDC or state public health laboratories have confirmed a total of 1,121 people in 47 states and the District of Columbia with respiratory illness caused by EV-D68.
Nationally, the number of reported cases of severe respiratory illness in children has increased. According to the CDC, this increase could be caused by many different viruses that are common during this time of year.
Furthermore, the CDC reports EV-D68 appears to be the predominant type of enterovirus this year and is likely contributing to the increases in severe respiratory illnesses. Increased awareness of EV-D68 is also contributing to increased recognition of new cases.
In the United States, people are more likely to get infected with enteroviruses in the summer and fall, so the season of infection is winding down.
People can help protect themselves from getting and spreading EV-D68 by following these steps:
Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
Avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick, or when you are sick
Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or shirt sleeve, not your hands
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick
Stay home when you are sick
Keep your children at home when they are sick; they should not attend school, daycare or group activities
Children with asthma are at risk for severe symptoms from EV-D68 and other respiratory illnesses should do the following:
Discuss and update your child’s asthma action plan with your primary care provider.
Make sure your children take their prescribed asthma medications as directed, especially long term control medication(s).
Be sure to keep your child’s reliever medication close at hand.
Make sure your child gets a flu vaccine when available.
If your child develops new or worsening asthma symptoms, follow the steps of your child’s asthma action plan. If your child’s symptoms do not go away, call your doctor right away.
Parents should make sure the child’s caregiver and/or teacher is aware of his/her condition, and that they know how to help if the child experiences any symptoms related to asthma.