ENTEROVIRUS D68

Enterovirus 68 (also known as EVD-68 or Entrovirus D68), a rare viral infection that can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and low blood oxygen levels (also known as hypoxemia). In some cases, however, the symptoms can be severe — particularly for children who already suffer from asthma or other respiratory problems.

According to the Center for Disease Control website the symptoms may include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough and muscle aches, similar to the flu. Fever is often times not present. If your child exhibits these symptoms or wheezing and difficulty breathing, we ask that you contact your child’s doctor. The enterovirus likely spreads when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches a surface that is then touched by others.

To help prevent transmission of the enterovirus and other viruses that cause respiratory symptoms:

• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Alcohol based sanitizers can be used if water is not available, but are not as effective as hand washing for the enter virus.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.
• Cover coughs or sneezes with shoulder.
• Avoid sharing cups and eating utensils with others.

Other important measures for parents are:

• Do not send your child to school if sick.
• If your child has asthma, make sure that you have an asthma action plan and that your child’s medicines are available, give long term control medicines as prescribed and have reliever medicine always available.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as toys and doorknobs.
• Obtain a flu vaccine for all children over 6 months of age and for all members of the family. Every year the flu affects many children and families and the flu vaccine can help to prevent this.
• Seek medical care right away if your child becomes ill and has any trouble breathing.

Additional information on the Entero virus D68 can be found by going to: http://www.cdc.gov/non-polio-enterovirus/about/EV-D68.html#protection. Frenship ISD works with local health officials to ensure that steps are taken to reduce the spread of any virus. With their help and your vigilance, we can ensure that we maintain a safe and healthy school community. If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact the campus nurse or the Department of Student Services.