EV-D68: Prevention and Infection Control
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Enteroviruses are common viruses that usually cause mild symptoms, such as the common cold. Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is an enterovirus that has been reported in multiple Midwest states in the past month, with the majority of reported cases being children. 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 majority of those infected are children, it can affect adults as well. However, symptoms usually are more severe in children and can sometimes require hospitalization. EV-D68 is spread through coughing, sneezing, and touching infected surfaces. With the school year beginning, preventing EV-D68 infection is essential to providing a safe and healthy learning environment for students.
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-infographicCDC Webpage.