In August 2014, enterovirus D68 was identified in children ill with severe respiratory illness in Kansas City, Missouri and Chicago, Illinois. EV-D68 was first identified in California in 1962, but had been reported only rarely in the US in the last 40 years. To date, no cases EV- D68 have been identified in Massachusetts. While most infections cause mild or no symptoms, some can be severe.
Some of the best ways to protect yourself and you family from these types of illnesses, including the Enterovirus and the Flu is to take every day precautions like to:
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
• Avoid kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick