The name, Enterovirus D68, sounds like the plague that will wipe out humanity. Although it is not as bad as it sounds, there are many reasons to be vigilant for its symptoms. The genus of enteroviruses includes 68 different species -- serotypes, in virus terminology -- including the polio virus, which first reached epidemic status in the U.S. in 1894. Enterovirus D68 differs from polio, in that a vaccine has not yet been found. For this reason, it is important to know the common methods for spreading the virus, and the symptoms that accompany it.

It is estimated that enteroviruses infect 10 to 15 million people every year, in the U.S. alone. Many enteroviruses are not severe in nature and only cause mild symptoms. The symptoms associated with the common cold can be caused by any one of a large number of enteroviruses. D68, however, has proven to be more serious. Since August of 2014, there have been 97 confirmed cases of D68 in the U.S., compared to the total of 100 cases that have been confirmed since D68 was first discovered in California in 1962. Many of those infected are children, and some have ended up in intensive care. The virus spreads easily among children, due to their immune systems not being fully developed, and often from being in such close proximity to other students in schools. 

Much like the common cold, the enterovirus D68 usually starts with symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, a cough, and possibly minor muscle aches. In the later stage, many children have reported difficulty breathing. People with pre-existing respiratory issues, such as asthma, may be more likely to see their worsening symptoms as a variation in their condition rather than being indicative of a viral infection. If you notice a child start to exhibit symptoms more severe than their usual condition for an elongated period of time, do not wait to take them to the doctor. A checkup is a minor cost, in time and money, to ensure their safety.

The virus is present in a person’s respiratory secretions, which means that it can spread when someone coughs, sneezes, or when another individual comes into contact with a contaminated surface. As with any other sickness this time of year, remember to wash your hands frequently and avoid contact with people who show symptoms of the enteroviruses. One of the most important ways to avoid a viral infection is to keep your immune system healthy. You can accomplish this by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep. Taking some time away from work and school to breathe and take a break is also very important, as stress harms your body’s ability to fight viruses and infection. 

The information page for Enterovirus D68 on the CDC website was used as a reference for this article.