What are the Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention of Enterovirus D68?

 

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a virus that can affect the respiratory system, leading to serious respiratory illness. In this article, we'll cover the symptoms of EV-D68, its treatment and prevention methods. Keep reading to find out more about this virus and how it can be avoided!

 

What is Enterovirus D68?

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a virus that belongs to the family of Enteroviruses. This virus typically causes mild respiratory illness in children; however, some children may develop more severe respiratory illness. In 2014, there was an outbreak of EV-D68 infection in the United States, and many children were hospitalized with severe respiratory illness.

There is no specific treatment for EV-D68 infection, and there is no vaccine to prevent this virus. The best way to prevent EV-D68 infection is to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands often and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.

 

Symptoms associated with Enterovirus D68

There are a range of symptoms associated with Enterovirus D68, which can vary in severity. The most common symptoms include:

• Fever


• Body aches


• Coughing


• Wheezing and difficulty breathing

In more severe cases, Enterovirus D68 can lead to pneumonia and even death. Children, particularly those with asthma or other respiratory conditions, are most at risk for developing severe symptoms. There is no specific treatment for Enterovirus D68, but people with milder symptoms may recover on their own without medical intervention. For those with more severe illness, hospitalization and supportive care may be necessary. There is no vaccine to prevent Enterovirus D68 infection, so the best way to protect yourself and your family is to practice good hand hygiene and avoid close contact with sick people.

 

Treatment for Enterovirus D68

There is no specific treatment for enterovirus D68. However, the virus usually clears up on its own within a few weeks. In the meantime, symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medication and home remedies.

If your child has a fever, give them OTC medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce it. Drink plenty of fluids and get rest. For severe respiratory symptoms, your doctor may prescribe an inhaler or nebulizer treatments to help open up the airways. For proper treatment, book an appointment with a specialist doctor.

Enterovirus D68 is contagious and can be spread through coughing and sneezing. To prevent the spread of the virus, practice good hygiene habits such as washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid close contact with people who are sick and clean surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus.

 

Prevention of Enterovirus D68

There is no specific prevention for enterovirus D68, as there is no vaccine available. The best way to prevent the spread of the virus is to practice good hygiene and cleanliness. This includes washing your hands often, especially after coming into contact with respiratory secretions or contaminated surfaces. It is also important to avoid close contact with people who are sick, and to clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus.