SSRH Emergency Department on alert for Enterovirus D68

Every day on the news there are reports about hundreds of children suffering respiratory distress linked to Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68).

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 emergency room.

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, hugging or sharing cups/eating utensils with those who are ill; and 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.