Enterovirus D68: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of enterovirus D68?

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) can cause mild to severe respiratory illness. The symptoms can vary but often include:

1. Fever
2. Runny nose
3. Sneezing
4. Cough
5. Body and muscle aches
6. Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
7. Rash
8. Less commonly, neurological symptoms such as limb weakness or paralysis

Severe cases, particularly in children with asthma, can lead to complications such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis. If you suspect you or someone you know has EV-D68, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What are the causes of enterovirus D68?

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a type of enterovirus, a common virus that typically causes mild respiratory illness. The exact cause of EV-D68 outbreaks is not always clear, but it spreads from person to person through respiratory secretions, such as saliva, nasal mucus, or sputum, when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches surfaces that others then touch. EV-D68 can also spread through close personal contact with an infected person, such as touching or shaking hands.

Certain factors can increase the risk of EV-D68 transmission and outbreaks, including:

1. Crowded places: Close contact with others in crowded places, such as schools or childcare centers, can increase the risk of spreading EV-D68.
2. Poor hygiene: Not washing hands frequently and thoroughly can contribute to the spread of the virus.
3. Seasonal factors: EV-D68 outbreaks have occurred more frequently in late summer and early fall, similar to the pattern of other enterovirus infections.

It’s important to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, to reduce the risk of EV-D68 transmission.

How is the diagnosis of enterovirus D68 made?

The diagnosis of enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is typically made based on a combination of clinical symptoms, laboratory tests, and sometimes imaging studies. Here’s how it’s usually done:

1. Clinical symptoms: EV-D68 infection can present with symptoms similar to other respiratory illnesses, so a healthcare provider will first assess the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and possible exposure to the virus.
2. Laboratory tests: To confirm EV-D68 infection, a healthcare provider may collect a respiratory specimen (such as a nasal or throat swab) or a stool specimen and send it to a laboratory for testing. The most common test used is polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which detects the genetic material of the virus.
3. Imaging studies: In severe cases of EV-D68 infection, especially when there are complications such as pneumonia or respiratory distress, imaging studies such as chest X-rays may be performed to assess the extent of lung involvement.

It’s important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis if you suspect EV-D68 infection, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other respiratory illnesses.

What is the treatment for enterovirus D68 infection?

There is no specific antiviral treatment for enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) infection. Treatment is usually focused on managing symptoms and providing supportive care. Here are some common approaches:

1. Rest and hydration: Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated can help the body recover from the infection.
2. Fever and pain management: Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and relieve pain.
3. Respiratory support: In severe cases where there is difficulty breathing, supplemental oxygen or other respiratory support may be necessary.
4. Monitoring: Healthcare providers may monitor patients closely, especially those with asthma or other underlying conditions, to watch for any worsening of symptoms or complications.
5. Preventing spread: Since EV-D68 is contagious, it’s important to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with others, to prevent the spread of the virus.

In severe cases or cases with complications, hospitalization may be necessary. If you suspect you or someone you know has EV-D68, it’s important to seek medical advice for appropriate management and care.