The Mississippi Department of Health cornfirmed two new Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) cases in Mississippi Monday, including one in Calhoun County.
The two cases were reported in young children – one from Forrest County and the other from Calhoun. A case was reported in a Hancock County child last week.
Enteroviruses are very common, causing up to 10-15 million infections in the United States each year. EV-D68 is one type of enterovirus that has recently been identified as sometimes causing severe respiratory illnesses and hospitalization in children.
Symptoms of EV-D68 are very similar to the common cold, and include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, and body and muscle aches. While most cases of illness are mild, children (newborns through teenagers) are most likely to become seriously ill, and those with asthma or underlying health conditions have a greater chance of complications from the virus.
Basic preventive measures include the following:
· Stay home (or keep children home) when ill and consult your healthcare provider.
· Wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds.
· Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
· Avoid kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or utensils with ill people.
· Disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
For more information, visit the MSDH website at www.HealthyMS.com/EV.