The number of children being treated at Nationwide Childrens Hospital for respiratory problems increased 20 percent during the last week. So far, doctors have treated about 73 patients. The spike could be related to an outbreak of the enterovirus D68, or EV-D68, an uncommon strain of enterovirus. The virus has popped up in the Midwest and other parts of the country. Childrens Hospital Dr. Dennis Cunningham said three samples have been sent to the CDC for testing. There is certainly some virus that is going around that is triggering patients with asthma having more trouble breathing," Cunningham said. "And its even making it difficult to breath in some children who have no lung disease at all who have never wheezed before.
Cunningham said all patients they have treated are recovering. The virus, he said, is typically spread through fecal-oral transmission. Which means people may get some feces on their hands, it could be from changing a diaper, touching something contaminated or dirty in a bathroom," he noted. "It may be spread as well by direct respiratory spread if someone sneezed or coughed in another persons face. But, again, theres a lot that needs to be learned about this virus. Its not completely understood.
Cunningham underscores it is safe for children to continue to go to school and doctors appointments. And he said hand washing or using an alcohol-based sanitizer is the best protection against the virus.
The virus can cause very mild, cold-like symptoms, but it can also create severe breathing issues which can result in hospitalization. It is particularly affecting children with asthma. Some adults have also contracted it. If the CDC tests confirm enterovirus, Cunningham said he does not expect a long outbreak. Were going to have this for a few more weeks potentially until the weather gets cooler.