Concerned about the Enterovirus D68 and Your Kids?

UPDATE Oct 1, 2014 >>> The Rhode Island Department of Health has confirmed that a Rhode Island child died last week from Cumberland as a result of Staphylococcus aureus sepsis associated with enteroviral infection (EV-D68). Infection by both Staphylococcus aureus sepsis and EV-D68 is a very rare combination that can cause very severe illness in children and adults.

see link: http://www.ri.gov/press/view/23044

— Original post below

Although no cases have been reported yet in Rhode Island, cases are being reported throughout the country of children becoming very ill from the Enterovirus D68. It’s good to know the majority of cases are only showing mild signs and symptoms very similar to the common cold.

So here’s the #1 thing that you can do to help prevent your children from becoming ill (with any virus or bacteria)…

#1 EDUCATE THEM IN PREVENTION!

Please check out the below tips and internet links and stay informed.

• Teach thorough hand washing… use water and SOAP, rubbing while you sing the ABC song or longer. It takes at least 20 seconds to kill all bacteria on your hands. Many children as well as adults put soap on their hands and immediately wash it off, without the 20 seconds of scrubbing – this friction is needed. Please take the time to teach thorough hand washing to your children and encourage them to wash their hands several times a day. Hand sanitizer is also effective. http://www.cdc.gov/features/handwashing/

• No face touching – teach children not to touch their faces. Most pathogens enter our bodies through our eyes, nose, or mouth – when we touch them. http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/cold-prevention-hand-washing

• Cough into the elbow – Teach kids to cough into their elbows, not into their hands.

• Teach how to use tissue – Please teach your child how to properly use tissues and send your child to school with them if they have a runny nose or cough.

• Wash frequently touched surfaces – Wash the surfaces that kids touch and share (door knobs, toys, drawers, etc.) daily.

I would also add as a preventive measure to boost immunity and keep the body strong – make sure children eat plenty of fresh vegetables and whole foods rich in nutrients and avoid processed foods that are lacking or depleted of the beneficial nutrients that are important for health. Make it a routine to ensure children get a good night sleep – try shooting for 10 hours per night especially if they appear low on energy or are often cranky.

Source: Nurse Diane L. Kowal, MA, BSN, RN, CSNT