SSRH emergency department on alert for EV-D68

Every day on the news there are reports about hundreds of children suffering respiratory distress linked to Enterovirus D68. Parents across the country are concerned for their children and want more information on what to do.

EV-D68, also referred to as HEV 68 (Human Enterovirus 68), is related to the rhinovirus which causes the common cold. However, unlike a cold, it's creating severe respiratory distress for infants, children and people of all ages who have a respiratory ailment like asthma. Some of those most severely affected have been hospitalized, and a few have required ventilator assistance.

Symptoms are the same as a cold -- sneezing, cough, runny nose, fever and muscle and body aches. For parents, it's really stressful -- they worry about telling the difference between this serious virus and just a normal cold.

Anyone with asthma or a history of wheezing should be closely monitored if cold symptoms develop. Anyone experiencing difficulty breathing -- whether they have a respiratory ailment or not -- should be taken to the ER.

Those who live in the states where a significant number of enterovirus cases have been reported should be on high alert. It's important to be vigilant because it's anticipated that the virus will spread to more states. On Sept. 18, states that have reported enterovirus cases are: Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, there is not a vaccine for the virus, although some experts say whooping cough and flu vaccines may offer some level of protection. The same prevention measures for avoiding the common cold apply to EV-D68:

• Wash your hands frequently

• Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth

• No kissing or hugging with those who are ill

• No sharing cups or eating utensils with those who are ill

• Disinfect frequently-touched surfaces such as toys and doorknobs.

There isn't a specific test to diagnose EV-D68, or a specific treatment for it, but Siloam Springs Regional Hospital is aware of the situation and knows what action to take in the event anyone arrives at the ER in distress.