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Enterovirus D 68

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Enterovirus D 68 has caused hundreds of infections so far in 2014. It is similar to a cold, however much more severe. It has caused difficulty breathing in younger people who have asthma or other breathing problems.

Babies, children, and teenagers are the most susceptible, especially those with weak immune systems.

This virus was 1st identified in 1962, however this year it has caused significant problems in multiple states which were unprecedented. The early signs are very similar to the common cold and may include fever, runny nose, sneezing, or coughing.

Patients who develop the severe forms of the disease will require hospitalization. There have been children who died as a result of this infection.

There is a special nasal swab which has been approved this year to test for enterovirus D 68 and about 10 other common causes of infections. Those would include influenza and RSV.

If you believe you have been exposed enterovirus D 68 or have any difficulty breathing, go to the nearest urgent care or emergency department for proper testing. Although antibiotics do not help with viral infections, or maybe other medications or treatments that will help to reduce the severity of these symptoms.

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