Enterovirus D68

US CDC has notified Maine CDC of a single confirmed case of Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) in a school-aged child from York county. The child was hospitalized for four days with cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, retractions, cyanosis, vomiting, and chest pain. The child was not in intensive care and was released from the hospital and is recovering.

Enteroviruses are associated with various clinical symptoms from mild to severe. EV-D68 causes primarily respiratory illness, although the full spectrum of disease remains unclear. EV-D68 was originally isolated in 1962 and, since then, has been reported rarely in the United States. Small clusters of EV-D68 associated with respiratory illness were reported in the United States during 2009-2010. There are no available vaccines or specific treatments for EV-D68 and clinical care is supportive. All but one confirmed case have been in children. EV-D68 has now been confirmed in more than 40 states; this is the first confirmed case in Maine.

To prevent the spread of EV-D68, wash hands frequently and cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder. If you feel sick, stay home and avoid close contact with others. Disinfect commonly used areas, like tables, counters, and doorknobs.

For more information, see the health alert at http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/attach.php?id=628931&an=2 or visit our website at http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/infectious-disease/epi/airborne/enterovirus.shtml