We have been receiving a lot of calls and questions about Enterovirus EV-D68, the respiratory virus that is causing severe illnessess in some children in several states. Here are some main points to know: - As of now, this virus has not yet been identified in the Milwaukee area. Samples are being tested at Children’s Hospital in patients with concerning symptoms. -Enteroviruses cause a wide variety of symptoms in children but commonly cause a disease very similar to a common cold (cough, congestion, runny nose, decreased appetite). -This strain of the virus, EV-D68, is not a new virus. It does not typically cause large outbreaks of infections as it is doing now in some cities. -The virus is spread through close contacts with people who are infected. This is mainly through respiratory droplets like nasal secretions and saliva. - The main way to stop the spread of this virus is frequent hand washing, teaching your child to cover their mouth when sneezing or coughing and avoiding sending your child to school or daycare when they are sick. -Treatment is mainly through supportive cares- treating your childs pain and/or fever if needed, keeping them hydrated and allowing them to rest. There has been a lot on the news (and Facebook) about this virus and the outbreak. The following links are reliable sources for continued information: Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Blog: tinyurl/mmm59yp HealthyChildren.org website from the AAP: tinyurl/mxtads4 Most importantly, if your child is showing signs of breathing problems, especially if they have asthma or have wheezed in the past, please contact us at the clinic to arrange for an appointment. If they have an Asthma Action Plan, please follow it. If the breathing problems are severe, please seek care at the emergency department.
Posted on: Tue, 09 Sep 2014 22:43:36 +0000
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