According to the CDC, infants, children, and teenagers are most likely to get infected with enteroviruses and become ill, because they do not yet have immunity (protection) from previous exposures to these viruses. Adults can get infected with enteroviruses, but they are more likely to have no symptoms or mild symptoms. Outbreaks of enterovirus are similar to outbreaks of other illnesses such as cold and flu, but EV-D68 is less common.

For the latest update on Enterovirus D68 activity nationally, click here.

What are the symptoms?

EV-D68 causes symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of a cold or flu, such as cough, sneezing, runny nose, body aches, or fever.

EV-D68 infection may be mild, but in children with a prior history of asthma, it can cause serious problems such as wheezing or difficulty breathing. As always, if your child has difficulty breathing or wheezing, please seek immediate medical care. Signs that your child is having trouble breathing can include wheezing, difficulty speaking or eating, blueness around the lips, or the belly pulling in with breaths.

Rarely, EV-68 can cause acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), an uncommon but serious neurologic condition that causes the muscles and reflexes in the body to become weak.

How is it spread?

Enterovirus D68 is thought to spread from person to person when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or contaminates a surface with their respiratory secretions. Enteroviruses, in general, can also be spread in the stool.

Is there a treatment?

There is no specific treatment for enterovirus infection. However, there are treatments available for the resulting breathing problems.

How can I prevent infection with Enterovirus D68?

• To prevent enterovirus and other infections, wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers.
• Hand hygiene with soap and water is preferred, as alcohol-based hand sanitizers have limited effectiveness against enteroviruses.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.

Is there any special kind of cleaning needed to get rid of Enterovirus D68?

EV-D68 is a non-enveloped virus. Thus, bleach or another hospital-grade disinfectant with an EPA label claim for non-enveloped viruses (e.g. norovirus, poliovirus, rhinovirus) should be used for environmental disinfection of surfaces.

Is there a vaccine?

There is no vaccine to prevent it.