What You Need To Know: Enterovirus D68 Published Sept. 11, 2014 By Public Health Flight 82d AMDS SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE Texas -- Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is one of the 100 different non-polio enteroviruses that may cause mild to severe respiratory illness. They are quite common but many people who get infected do not get sick. Typically, infants and children are most likely to get ill with common symptoms of intense cold; runny nose, shortness of breath, or coughing which proceeds within a week. EV-D68 is particularly a rare type but it's seldom fatal. There have been no reported EV-D68 infections in Texas. Enteroviruses usually peak in September around fall season or summer. There are no vaccines specifically developed to prevent enterovirus D68 or any antiviral pills. They can spread easily when you have close contact with an infected individual or touching objects or surfaces that have the virus on them then touching your mouth or face. The best way to keep you from getting infected is by following these simple and easy steps: · Wash your hands often with soap and water · Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth without washing hands · Disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched · Avoid close contact with someone sick · Stay home if you are not feeling well For more information please contact the 82d AMDS Public Health flight at 676-3052 or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at: http://www.cdc.gov/non-polio-enterovirus/about/EV-D68.html.