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Enterovirus D68 A Strain On Experts

Picture that demonstrates way to prevent D68

The Enterovirus is a source of growing concern in Utah now that it has been discovered in Primary Children’s Hospital. The virus itself is so common that most people have been infected with it by their first birthday with little to no consequences. However, as with all viruses, there are different strains and it is the D68 strain that people, especially those with respiratory issues or children, should pay close attention to.

According to Rebecca Ward of the Utah Department of Health there is no need for panic, just awareness.

“There have been no deaths reported as of yet. We just want parents to be aware that it is here. We are not necessarily in a panic situation. It’s a common virus. This particular strain is a little less common. Look for signs and symptoms and if it becomes more severe, contact your health care provider,” Ward said.

Experts in the field understand very little about D68 at this point. They don’t, as of yet, know how long it stays in the body or how long a person is contagious. They do report that a person experiences symptoms three to six days after being infected with the virus and that people can be infected without symptoms and unknowingly infect others.

There are currently no vaccinations or treatments for D68 and specialists are working together to better understand it.

“We understand that people are very concerned about this and we are working with our public health lab to get tests of patients who may have been tested for this particular strain to CDC," Ward said. "We want to understand how widespread the illness is and what the trends are and whether it’s going up or down. So we are in communication with the CDC and our public health partners to try and get more information on what’s going on with this particular virus.”

The Enterovirus itself can trigger other chronic conditions and close communication with your health provider is recommended.