In general, a mix of enteroviruses circulates every year, and different types of enteroviruses can be common in different years. Small numbers of EV-D68 have been reported regularly to CDC since 1987. However, this year the number of people reported with confirmed EV-D68 infection is much greater than that reported in previous years.
How does the virus spread?
Since EV-D68 causes respiratory illness, the virus can be found in an infected person’s respiratory secretions, such as saliva, nasal mucus, or sputum. EV-D68 likely spreads from person to person when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches a surface that is then touched by others.
How can I protect myself?
You can help prevent yourself from getting and spreading EV-D68 and other respiratory illnesses by following these steps:
•Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. See Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives.
•Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
•Avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
•Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or shirt sleeve, not your hands.
•Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.