What is Enterovirus D68: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a virus that creates a respiratory illness similar to common cold. It could lead to outbreaks of neurological disease and breathing issues. There are no vaccines yet for the prevention of Enterovirus D68 infections. 

Let’s explore more about Enterovirus D68 in the blog.

What is Enterovirus D68?

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a member of Enterovirus D species, which is of Enterovirus genus of Picornaviridae family. Enterovirus D68 majorly causes respiratory tract infections followed by cough, dyspnea, and wheezing. People having a weak immune system and those with severe chronic medical conditions are more prone to get affected by it.

What are the causes of Enterovirus D68?

Enterovirus D68 is a viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system of the person affected by it. 

Below are some of the major causes of Enterovirus D68 discussed below:

• Transmission of Virus: The virus can easily spread through air as respiratory droplets while the infected person might cough or sneeze. Also, the contaminated surface also plays a crucial role in spreading the infection. 
• Seasonal Outbreak: The EV D68 infections are generally observed among people that they get infected by the virus during the summers or during fall. 
• Weak Immunity: An individual with a weakened immune system becomes more vulnerable towards severe effects of Enterovirus D68 and gets easily affected by it.
• Environmental Factors: Unhygienic environments may increase the escalation of Enterovirus D68 and could easily affect the people living nearby that area.

What are the signs and symptoms of Enterovirus D68?

The signs and symptoms of Enterovirus D68 depend on each individual suffering from it as per their earlier medical history.  

• Enterovirus D68 may cause rashes, abdominal pain and sometimes soft stools are also observed. 
• Initial symptoms of Enterovirus D68 are cold, running nose, sore throat, cough, and fever.
• Pneumonia, reduced alertness, a reduction in urine production, dehydration, and may lead to respiratory failure in extreme cases.

How is Enterovirus D68 diagnosed?

For an appropriate treatment to happen, right diagnosis is of utmost importance. When the symptoms of Enterovirus D68 are observed to be severe, the healthcare professional suggests diagnostic tests such as nasal swab tests to detect any kind of common viruses, like the flu and COVID-19. 

To confirm through the diagnosis, a blood test or lumbar puncture is required to test the cerebrospinal fluid if you are experiencing nervous system symptoms. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) can also help diagnose the other causes of weakness and paralysis, like the possibility of stroke.

How to treat Enterovirus D68?

The Enterovirus treatment majorly deals with the reduction of the symptoms, as there is no specific method of treatment for Enterovirus D68. With the help of right supportive care and proper preventive measures we can manage and reduce the symptoms of Enterovirus D68.

• Medications: There are various medicines that are used to manage Enterovirus D68 like Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, and various cough syrups. These medications help in reducing fever, relieve pain, and reduce coughing.
• Rest and Hydration: Plenty amount of rest boosts the body’s immune system and fastens the recovery process. Also it is advised to consume enough fluid to avoid dehydration in the body. 
• Oxygen Therapy: In extreme cases of hospitalisation, the doctor might suggest oxygen therapy to meet the adequate amount of oxygen supply required by the body to function well, also the patient might also be put on ventilation in rare cases of respiratory system failure. 

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How do you prevent Enterovirus D68?

There is yet no vaccine available for the cure and prevention of Enterovirus D68. But, with the help of preventive measures, one can reduce the chances of getting sick due to the impact of Enterovirus D68. 

• Good hygienic practices like sneezing or coughing on the crook of your elbow.
• Disinfecting surfaces like toys, phones, countertops and doorknobs could also reduce the risk of spreading the virus. 
• Staying isolated if you are sick.
• Avoid sharing cups or utensils with the infected individuals. 

Conclusion

The Enterovirus D68 is a type of viral infection that majorly affects the respiratory system in the body. Generally, children are more prone of getting infected by Enterovirus D68 due to a weak immune system. The symptoms of Enterovirus D68 vary from being mild to severe, that is from casual cold and cough to extreme respiratory failure. While there is no specific Enterovirus D68 treatment, the supportive preventive measures are used in reducing the risk and symptoms. Awareness and proactive measures help reduce the impact of Enterovirus D68 on health.

>> Also Read: Nipah Virus: Causes, Symptoms and Deadly Outbreaks

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.

References:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21669-enterovirus-d68

https://www.cdc.gov/non-polio-enterovirus/about/about-enterovirus-d68.html

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/expert-answers/protecting-my-child-from-enterovirus/faq-20113868

https://www.webmd.com/children/enterovirus68-infection

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7171721/