The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed New Jersey’s first case of enterovirus D68 earlier today.
The case involves a child who was a patient at an unidentified Philadelphia hospital that treated two other cases of the respiratory virus. According to the New Jersey Department of Health, the child’s condition has since improved, and he or she has been discharged from the hospital.
State Health Commissioner Mary E. O’Dowd advises that New Jersey parents and health care providers monitor their children for symptoms, which range from sneezing and coughing to severe breathing problems and wheezing. “The New Jersey Department of Health is closely monitoring for increases in respiratory illness in hospitals around the state. If you or your child are experiencing cold-like symptoms and are having difficulty breathing, contact your health care provider right away,” says O’Dowd.
Enterovirus D68 is a rare respiratory virus with confirmed cases in 21 states. The virus is transmitted through hand-to-hand contact and, since there is no vaccination, means of prevention are limited to hand washing and sanitizing.
Learn more about enterovirus D68, the serious respiratory infection that’s hit NJ.
