NYS Department of Health Confirms 39 Cases of Enterovirus EV-D68 in Children in NY
I did a post / blog Friday about a mysterious illness that is seemingly sweeping the nation and affecting children, with one reported case at Oishei Children's Hospital. The ailment was identified yesterday as Acute Flaccid Myelitis, or AFM .
Today, doctors seem to have identified what is causing the mysterious ailment but still do not know why it's happening. Now the NYS Department of Health has confirmed 39 cases in NY State with the culprit being enterovirus EV-D68.
WATCH & LISTEN:
“All parents must take simple steps to protect their children, especially those who are immune-compromised or have respiratory problems, to avoid becoming infected," said New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker in a released statement. “We will continue to work with our partners at the CDC and local health departments to make sure that all New York families have the information they need to prevent their children and others from getting the virus.”
Enteroviruses can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person. There is no specific treatment for the EV-D68 virus, other than managing symptoms.
Here are some tips from the NYSDOH to protect you and your family from contracting the illness:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid kissing, hugging and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
• Disinfect frequently-touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
• Use the same precautions you would use to prevent the spread of influenza.
For detailed information about the virus, click the button below.
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