Enterovirus D68
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What is Enterovirus D68?
Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is one of more than 100 non-polio enteroviruses. This virus was first identified in California in 1962. The United States is currently experiencing a nationwide outbreak of EV-D68 associated with severe respiratory illness.
Precautionary Measures
You can help prevent yourself from getting and spreading EV-D68 and other respiratory illnesses by following these steps:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. (See Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives)
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or shirt sleeve, not your hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
Appropriate Disinfectants
EV-D68 is a non-enveloped virus, therefore, the CDC recommends that environmental disinfection of surfaces in healthcare settings should be performed using a hospital-grade disinfectant with an EPA label claim for any of several non-enveloped viruses (e.g. norovirus, poliovirus, rhinovirus). Disinfectant products should be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific label claim and in a manner consistent with CDC recommendations for environmental infection control in health care facilities.
More Information
- CDC Health Advisory (Sept. 12, 2014)
- Overview of Enterovirus D68 (CDC)
- Enterovirus D68 Alert (Association for Professionals in Infection Control)
- Enterovirus D68 Infographic (CDC)
