CDC Confirms Cases Of Enterovirus D68 In Oklahoma

State health officials say a respiratory infection affecting hundreds of children across the Midwest is now confirmed in Oklahoma.

Tuesday, September 16th 2014, 1:45 pm

By: News On 6

CDC Confirms Cases Of Enterovirus D68 In Oklahoma

State health officials say a respiratory infection affecting hundreds of children across the Midwest is now confirmed in Oklahoma.

In a news release, the Oklahoma Department of Health says laboratory testing by the CDC has confirmed Enterovirus D68 in seven of 24 specimens submitted from Oklahoma hospitals and laboratories.

“Children less than 5 years old and children with underlying asthma appear to be at greatest risk of having medical complications from EV-D68 requiring hospitalization,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Kristy Bradley.

“If a child develops a cold or a cough, parents and caregivers should just watch the child a little more closely to ensure the respiratory infection is running a normal course. If wheezing or asthma-like symptoms develop, medical care should be accessed immediately.”

The virus has been associated with an increase in pediatric admissions at hospitals in central Oklahoma.

The OSDH says medical providers are not required to report suspected cases of the virus to state health authorities. Therefore, the number of actual cases in the state cannot be tracked.

Health officials say there are no specific treatments or vaccines to prevent Enterovirus D68 infections but recommend the following protections:

Washing hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
Avoiding touching the eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoiding close contact and sharing cups and eating utensils with people who are sick.
Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces such as toys, doorknobs and light switches, especially if someone is sick.
Staying home when sick.

9/8/2014 Related Story: Tulsa Doctor Addresses Outbreak Of Respiratory Illness In Kids