Atlanta, Georgia — Rise in Respiratory Illness Enterovirus D68 Detected in Wastewater Samples
Hey there, folks! It’s our priority to keep you informed about health-related updates, and today we’ve got some crucial news to share. Recently, data from WastewaterSCAN suggests that **enterovirus D68 (EV-D68)**, a respiratory illness leading to polio-like symptoms, is on the rise in Georgia and multiple other states.
For those who might not be familiar, **EV-D68** can be particularly concerning because, although it often causes mild symptoms that seem like just a common cold, it has the potential to develop into something far more serious. Let’s break it down for you.
What’s happening right now?
Over the last ten days, **medium levels of EV-D68** have been detected in 323 out of 429 samples nationwide. WastewaterSCAN, a nonprofit organization that tracks viral activity by analyzing wastewater, has noted these findings. Basically, viruses are shed in human waste, and by sampling wastewater, scientists can get a good snapshot of what’s going on in a community health-wise.
The Current Situation in Georgia
Here in Georgia, **medium levels of EV-D68** have been identified in metro Atlanta testing sites. But it’s not just an issue in our backyard; the highest rates are in the South and the Northeast, suggesting a broader concern.
A Tough Nut to Crack: What is Enterovirus D68?
So, what exactly is EV-D68? Well, it’s a virus that spreads through respiratory secretions like saliva and mucus, by touching contaminated surfaces, or even by shaking hands with someone who’s infected. It can also be spread by not washing hands properly after using the restroom or changing a diaper.
Symptoms and Serious Complications
Most people experience **mild symptoms** like a runny nose, fever, and cough. However, it’s particularly perilous for children because it can escalate to a neurological condition known as **acute flaccid myelitis (AFM)**. This condition can cause muscles and reflexes to grow weak suddenly, sometimes leaving children unable to move parts of their body like the face, neck, back, arms, or legs.
According to Caitlin Rivers, an epidemiologist, we usually see a spike in **AFM cases** around September. So far this year, there have been **13 confirmed cases** of AFM out of 22 currently under investigation. Despite this, health officials are still puzzled about many aspects of how AFM works and what exactly causes it.
Data from the Past
Since 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have recorded 758 confirmed AFM cases. The condition has seen two prior surges in 2016 and 2018, both suspected to be linked to **EV-D68**. Despite expectations of a similar rise in 2022, it didn’t happen, possibly due to changes in the virus or higher levels of immunity.
“We’re still trying to figure it out,” remarked Dr. Kevin Messacar, an infectious disease specialist who has treated some of the earliest AFM cases.
Recommendations to Stay Safe
Protecting yourself and your family against **EV-D68** boils down to good hygiene practices. Since there’s no vaccine for it, the CDC advises:
- Thoroughly washing hands with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds.
- Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.
- Teaching kids to cough and sneeze into their elbows.
It’s crucial to be mindful of these simple yet effective steps. **EV-D68** is highly contagious, but with careful preventive measures, we can help curb its spread and protect those most at risk.
Keep an Eye Out
While most people recover from the initial respiratory symptoms associated with **EV-D68**, remaining vigilant is essential, especially if you notice symptoms persisting or escalating.
We’ll keep bringing you the latest updates, so stay tuned and stay healthy!
