Enterovirus D68 Cases Increasing Across the U.S., Raising Concerns

The respiratory virus primarily affects children and can, in rare cases, lead to a serious neurological condition causing paralysis.

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) cases are rising nationwide, with detections in wastewater at medium levels in numerous sites.
The virus primarily causes mild respiratory symptoms but can lead to acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a rare neurological condition that can cause paralysis.
Children, especially those with asthma, are most vulnerable to EV-D68, which spreads through coughs, sneezes, and contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms of EV-D68 range from mild (runny nose, sneezing, cough) to severe (wheezing, difficulty breathing) and can include neurological symptoms like limb weakness and facial droop.
There are currently no vaccines or specific treatments for EV-D68, making preventive measures such as good hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick individuals crucial.