CDC Issues Warning Over Strain Of Respiratory Virus Hospitalizing Children

DALTON, GA, (WDEF)-Enterovirus D68 has hospitalized children, with extreme cold like symptoms in Illinois and Missouri and the CDC say the number of cases is rising.

"Sue Gerber, CDC,"D68 infections from two different locations in the mid-west, but we are still investigating right now and we’re sifting through, analyzing and we’ll see reports as they come in."

Research and Medical specialists at Dalton State say children especially in North Georgia and East Tennessee could be at risk.

 Christi Walker, Dalton State,Respiratory Education "Asthma is very rampant in this area especially in children, it is almost epidemically level in Hamilton County"

Dr Marina Smitherman, Biology Professor,"Parents with young children and with students on campus make sure to wash your hands with hot water and soap for at least 20 to 30 seconds and get the flu shots so you are not doubly ill"

The virus was first discovered in the early 1960s in California but there has been a surge in children coughing, having fevers and contracting rashes with it, since school started back just a few weeks ago.

At First Baptist Church in Dalton they say they are taking every precaution necessary to make sure their students and families are safe in case they contract the virus.

Brenda Dedmon, Director of Children’s Learning Center at First Baptist Church Dalton,"Of course they wash before meals and after lunch, just a regular routine, our teachers wash their hands as well, we try very protective, we try to stay in touch with parents if we notice something if the child is not feeling as well"

the CDC is now investigating suspected cases of EV-D68 in Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Oklahoma and Utah.

Kids with asthma are advised to have inhalers with them while at school and parents should be on the look out for cold and flu like symptoms.

Dalton State they are monitoring their students.
     The CDC added that kissing and sharing of cups and cutlery can make the virus spread faster.