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San Francisco Reports 1st Case Of Enterovirus D-68, 14 Children Infected Statewide

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) – Health officials in San Francisco have confirmed a case of enterovirus D-68 in a child on Friday, one day after officials in Alameda and Solano counties confirmed cases.

According to a statement from the San Francisco Department of Public Health, the affected individual is a child under the age of 18. The child was admitted to an out-of-county hospital for two days in mid-September and was discharged in good condition.

ENTEROVIRUS D-68:

Alameda County health officials reported two patients ages 18 and under having the respiratory infection Thursday morning. Alameda County's Director of Communicable Disease Control and Planning Dr. Erica Pan said she was "not surprised at all" about the virus showing up in the county and said residents "should not be alarmed."

Also on Thursday, Solano County officials confirmed one case in a child. The child reportedly suffered mild symptoms and was not hospitalized. A case has also been reported in Santa Cruz County.

Dr. Gil Chavez of the California Department of Public Health said at least 14 children in California have been infected with enterovirus D-68.

The virus causes respiratory illness similar to a cold or flu, but can cause severe respiratory symptoms especially in children with a history of asthma. The virus could also be linked to muscle weakness or paralysis in children.

Health officials urge parents to seek medical attention if their child has difficulty breathing or wheezing. To prevent transmission of the virus, officials suggest washing hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands, and avoid sharing utensils with sick people.

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