Enterovirus D68, or EV-D68, was first discovered in 1962 in California. Until recently, it has only been tied to smaller clusters of disease around the United States.  From mid-August to October 1, 2014, more than 500 people in 42 states, including Maryland, and the District of Columbia, were confirmed to have respiratory illness associated with EV-D68, according to the CDC. So far, all the cases have been among children, except for one adult. Children with asthma, which is a significant problem in Baltimore, appear to be more susceptible to becoming ill with Enterovirus 68 than children who do not have asthma.

Enterovirus D68 may cause mild cold symptoms, such as runny nose and coughing, in most children. Children with asthma, which is a significant problem in Baltimore, are at higher risk for becoming severely ill with Enterovirus D68. It is important that parents monitor for signs or symptoms of trouble breathing, and get help from their medical provider if they have concerns.

Several tips for keeping your child from getting and spreading Enterovirus 68:

• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• Wash your hands often.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces.
• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
• Stay home when you are sick.

The CDC has information available on Enterovirus 68, including Frequently Asked Questions.

"What Parents Need To Know About Enterovirus D68" - from the CDC

Baltimore Sun - September 19, 2014: "Maryland prepares for cases of Enterovirus"

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