Enterovirus D68 sends 4 children to CHEO
The Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario has treated four children with enterovirus D68 so far, and expects to treat more in the coming weeks.
The four children made full recoveries and were sent home, CHEO said in a news release issued Wednesday. They did not require intensive care.
"CHEO is expecting to see more children with enterovirus D68 over the coming weeks," the hospital said.
CHEO would not comment on specifics, including when the children were infected and how long it took for the children to be tested.
"It's an evolving situation and our testing is ramping up. And we expect, in the very near future, that it will become quicker and quicker," said Dr. Lindy Samson, CHEO's chief of infectious diseases.
"Children, especially young children, with asthma or breathing problems are presenting with more wheezing and serious breathing difficulties than with other enterovirus strains and may require more support and care," the hospital said.
Symptoms for most children are mild and include fevers, runny noses and coughs, indistinguishable from a regular cold.
Some children may have no symptoms at all. CHEO is encouraging concerned parents to bring children with respiratory symptoms to family doctors and walk-in clinics, without siblings and other family members, to help reduce overcrowding and prevent spreading the illness.
A child who appears to be struggling to breathe should be seen in an emergency department immediately. Children under five years old or children with a history of asthma should be watched more carefully for worsening symptoms, especially breathing difficulties, the hospital said.
Prevention
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 15 seconds:
- After being in a public place or outdoor.
- After coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
- After visiting the washroom.
- Before preparing or eating food.
- Before and after visiting with people who are sick.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you can’t wash your hands with soap and water.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid kissing, hugging and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue, your arm or your sleeve — not your hand.
- Stay at home when you are ill.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and toys.
