ALBANY, N.Y. – Doctors in Colorado are investigating ten cases where they believe the enterovirus D-68 may have led to paralysis in kids and teenagers.
Health experts are still urging people to be on the lookout for symptoms of the enterovirus D-68, or EV-D68, strain such as difficulty breathing. Even though extremely rare cases of paralysis might be connected to the virus, one local doctor believes the virus may not spread once cold weather becomes prevalent.
Dr. James Saperstone said EV-D68 is a scary virus because the other strains of enterovirus do not cause respiratory problems.
“They cause fevers and blisters and diarrhea,” he said.
EV-D68, however, causes respiratory issues, especially for children with poor or uncontrolled asthma. Now, doctors are looking at the virus in ten separate cases in Colorado for possibly causing paralysis.
The New York State Department of Health released the following statement on any cases of EV-D68 connected paralysis:
“The New York State Department of Health (DOH) continues to cooperate with the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's investigation. To date, DOH has not received reports of pediatric patients hospitalized with acute neurological illness characterized by focal limb weakness of an undetermined etiology and MRI abnormalities similar to those identified in cases investigated in Colorado.”
While the range of complications caused by EV-D68 is still being learned, Dr. Saperstone said the upcoming winter season should become a factor because enteroviruses thrive in warm temperatures.
“And it's most likely to die out once it gets nice and cold,” he said.
Health experts are looking across the country to research how the EV-D68 strain reacts.
Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 45 states are dealing with the virus. Doctors are warning parents to seek medical attention for children and teenagers who are suffering from enhanced breathing issues.
The NYS DOH has advised parents to take the following steps to protect themselves and others from the infection:
· Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
· Avoid touching your 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.
· Use the same precautions you would use to prevent the spread of influenza.
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