First Case of EV-D68 in Rhode Island Adult

The Rhode Island Department of Health received confirmation on Wednesday from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of a case of Enterovirus D68 infection (EV-D68) involving an adult. The adult, who was recently hospitalized, has since improved and been discharged.

According to a press release, this confirmed case of EV-D68 was part of a batch of specimens sent to the CDC on September 15. There have been no deaths in Rhode Island or in the United States associated with EV-D68.

Massachusetts health officials confirmed a case of the virus in an 8-year-old southeastern Massachusetts girl on Tuesday. The girl, who has a history of asthma, was hospitalized and recovered.

Parents are encouraged by the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) to promote good hand hygiene to protect against EV-D68 and influenza (flu).

Mild symptoms may include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, and body and muscle aches. Patients who are very ill with EV-D68 have difficulty breathing, and may or may not have fever or wheezing. Many children with severe illness have had asthma or wheezing in the past. Parents whose children are sick with a cold and have difficulty breathing, or see symptoms getting worse, should contact their healthcare provider right away. Parents with children who have asthma should have a care plan in place with their healthcare provider to follow in the event of any illness.

In the United States, people are more likely to get infected with enteroviruses in the summer and fall, and EV-D68 infections are likely to decline later in the fall.

There is no vaccine or specific antiviral medication for enterovirus infections.

Visit the CDC website for more information.

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