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CDC Confirms Arizona Enterovirus 68 Case

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This week, in an update released by Arizona public health, the CDC has confirmed the death of a 6-year-old Phoenix boy from Enterovirus-68. After 14 tests have proven negative for EV-68, the Arizona Health Department said officials are awaiting the results of other tests.

One of the most disturbing features of the enterovirus strain is its attack on children. Children with asthma are particularly at risk. The virus is transmitted through sneezes, coughs and contact with surfaces touched by an infected person.

Enteroviruses are very common, especially in late summer and early fall. The CDC estimates that 10 million to 15 million infections occur in the United States each year.

These viruses usually appear like the common cold; symptoms include sneezing, a runny nose and a cough. Most people recover without any treatment. But some types of enterovirus are more serious. These can cause hand, foot and mouth disease; viral meningitis; encephalitis (inflammation of the brain); an infection of the heart; and paralysis in some patients.

This year, EV-68 seems to be exacerbating breathing problems in children who have asthma. The virus has infected at least 277 people in 40 states, according to the CDC. Cases have also been reported in Canada.

The CDC recommends taking some preventative measures by following these steps:

Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, not your hands.
Stay home when you are sick.

There are no vaccines or antiviral medications for preventing and treating EV-68 infections.

Contact your local public health agency or healthcare provider for more information.

For the best Arizona news and views, read www.SedonaEye.com daily!

For the best Arizona news and views, read www.SedonaEye.com daily!

4 Comments

  1. Thanks for this article.

  2. This virus can cause paralysis. It’s important to stay away of public places with children and older people and anyone slightly ill, this is a dangerous virus and don’t take it casually. Wash hands very often and longer than 20 seconds for good health.

  3. Edar Tripi says:

    Gods blessings for this little boy’s family.

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