County health officials respond to 2nd case of Enterovirus D68

Another child has been treated for Enterovirus D68 in Riverside County, prompting an investigation by health officials.

“The investigation is in progress so we don’t have a lot of specific details at this time,” said Barbara Cole, an infectious disease specialist with the county’s Department of Public Health.

691 children have been infected with the virus in 46 states, and one 4-year-old has died in New Jersey.

In California alone the tally is up to 32 cases of the illness.

The county confirmed its first case last Friday: a teenage girl from Temecula, who is said to be recovering.

The virus is sparking fear for children in the valley.

“It’s scary,” said Miranda, a teenager in Palm Desert.

“If you get it, you could potentially die,” said Madison, also of Palm Desert.

County medical centers have been put on alert.

“We’ve been in communication with our medical community and our hospitals about when to report it to public health and what type of testing to do, so that’s ongoing,” Cole said.

Health officials are also talking to schools about what they need to do to prevent the spread of the virus. They stress if people get sick with respiratory illness, not to attend school or work.

“Be aware of the symptoms, which can be similar to flu initially, and they should contact health provider if a child’s symptoms get worse,” Cole said.

“It’s not something to take lightly, if your child is sick get it checked out,” said Michelle McLaughlin of Palm Desert.

D68 is one of more than a hundred strains of the virus. Symptoms include fever, coughing, sneezing and a runny nose.

Health officials recommend avoiding touching the eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands, avoiding close contact with anyone who’s sick, and disinfecting surfaces.

“It’s important because it could spread and your life could be at risk,” said Madison.