Harford County Health Officials on Preventing Enterovirus

Maryland health officials confirmed Wednesday that enterovirus D68 has been confirmed in the state, prompting the Harford County Health Department to call upon citizens to protect themselves and their kids from getting the contagious illness.

The most commonly reported symptoms of enterovirus D68 are respiratory distress and wheezing, with or without fever, according to the Harford County Health Department.

“Simple prevention measures all of us can take will minimize the spread of illness,” Harford County Health Officer Susan Kelly said. She offered the following guidance:

• Wash hands with soap and water.
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick with respiratory illness.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth, especially with unwashed hands.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces like toys and doorknobs.
• Don’t share eating implements with people who have respiratory illness.
• Pay close attention to children with asthma.

Kelly also recommended staying up-to-date on vaccinations, especially the flu shot.

Most severe cases of enterovirus D68 involve children with underlying respiratory issues, like asthma, but some children without a diagnosis of asthma have experienced wheezing, according to the Harford County Health Department.

A Baltimore County boy reportedly tested positive for enterovirus D68 and is recovering. He had asthma, and experienced wheezing and blueness around the mouth.

Because there is no specific treatment for enterovirus 68, medical professionals say they treat the symptoms. For example, if there is wheezing, they treat the wheezing; and if someone has problems breathing, then officials provide respiratory support and oxygen.

As of Wednesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that enterovirus 68 had been confirmed in 220 people across 32 states.

Image is courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.