Enteroviruses are common viruses that usually cause mild symptoms, such as the common cold. Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is an enterovirus that reportedly infected children in 49 states in 2014, causing hospitalization in many cases. EV-D68 causes respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and fever. In more severe cases, it can cause difficulty breathing and wheezing; the severe cases typically occur in children with asthma or another pre-existing respiratory condition.

While the reported infections of this virus have diminished since 2014, there have been reports of children developing symptoms of paralysis, similar to polio, in 34 states, and research suggests that EV-D68 may be the cause of it. With the virus suspected of causing permanent, long-term effects, prevention of an outbreak is even more critical.  EV-D68 is spread through coughing, sneezing, and touching infected surfaces. Frequent disinfecting of high-touch surfaces, especially in schools, will help maintain a healthy environment and inhibit the spread of EV-D68 and other illnesses. Children should also be encouraged to practice good hand hygiene.

For non-healthcare facilities, the CDC recommends thoroughly and properly disinfecting surfaces to prevent the spread of EV-D68, especially in schools and day care facilities. Using proper disinfecting techniques is essential. An EPA-registered disinfectant should be used at the correct dilution stated on the label. The disinfectant should be applied to the surface and the surface should be left visibly wet and allowed to air dry. The CDC has more specific infection control guidelines for dealing with patients with or suspected of having illness related to EV-D68.

For a detailed process of disinfecting procedures, check out Multi-Clean’s video tutorial

For Multi-Clean EPA-registered disinfectants, visit our Infection Control Webpage

Print this educational infographic on EV-D68 EV68-infographic

More information about Enterovirus D68, including its symptoms, visit the CDC Webpage