CDC to test for enterovirus D68 in Delaware children with respiratory illness

Twelve children in Delaware have been hospitalized with a respiratory illness caused by an unidentified virus, according to the state’s Division of Public Health.

The CDC will conduct testing to determine if the virus is the same enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) that has occurred across the US, particularly among children, according to a press release. Test results were expected within 7 to 10 days.

“While the test results will be helpful, it is most important to stop the spread of this illness, whether or not it is EV-D68,” Karyl Rattay, MD, MS, Delaware Division of Public Health director, said in the release. “Viruses that cause respiratory illness are easily spread and likely shared from person to person when an infected person coughs, sneezes or touches contaminated surfaces. Sanitary precautions … are important.”

Clusters of severe respiratory illness that developed recently among children in Kansas City, Mo., and Chicago are associated with EV-D68, according to a CDC report. Patients were aged 6 weeks to 16 years, with more than half the patients having a history or asthma or wheezing. Ten other states have reported respiratory illnesses and EV-D68 testing is being conducted, the CDC reported.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology has advised parents of children with asthma and allergies to be aware of their child’s symptoms regarding EV-D68.

There are more than 100 types of human enteroviruses, with symptoms ranging from minor febrile illness to severe, potentially fatal conditions, according to the Delaware DPH. Most people infected with enteroviruses are asymptomatic, with children and teenagers most likely to become infected, the release said.