The number of confirmed cases of the human enterovirus 68 (HEV68) continues to grow in Indiana and other areas, with the illness now being seen in 12 states. Four Lake County, Indiana, children were treated at the University of Chicago Hospital recently.
Greg Carter, Reid’s Infection Control officer, said Indiana Health Department officials believe the HEV68 is at the root of the mysterious epidemic that has struck in Alabama, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, New York, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania. Carter said there is no vaccine or specific treatment for the virus, which is related to the rhinovirus that is responsible for the common cold. It can be more dangerous for children and others with asthma or immune system compromising conditions.
Carter said this illness and the approaching seasonal flu season should motivate everyone to take steps designed to prevent these and other infections. “Wash your hands,” Carter said, “avoid close contact with those who are sick and keep objects and surfaces disinfected.”
He noted that as a way to prevent infections such as this one or the flu, Reid has long maintained hand sanitizer stations at entrances with messaging that encourages hand-washing.
HEV68 symptoms include a low-grade fever, cough, runny nose, sneezing and body/muscle aches.
Enteroviruses are common. There are more than 100 types which cause an estimated 10 to 15 million infections each year, especially in children.
Remember some of the best ways to reduce the risk and spread of infection:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your cough.
- Avoid kissing, hugging and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are ill.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
- Avoid going out and especially visiting hospital patients if you think you may be ill
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