Health officials warn of Enterovirus D-68

Officials: Enterovirus symptoms much like polio

The Ebola virus has sparked national attention in the recent weeks. But public health officials are now warning against another virus, that-- unlike Ebola -- has made its way to Florida.

It's called the Enterovirus D-68 and children are the most vulnerable. A 10-year-old girl in Polk County was released from the hospital after being treated for the virus.

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The virus is similar the flu and can become serious enough to send someone to the hospital. However, health officials are concerned of the amount of severe cases around the country. The Enterovirus has spread across 43 states.

The director of the Duval County Health Department, Dr. Kelli Wells, is warning people who work with kids that the virus can be so severe it can cause symptoms similar to polio.

"It's causing more severe illness so we are looking further. Any child with any unknown respiratory illness is going to be screened and tested for Enterovirus D-68," she said.

Gwen Smith, who works in a hospital environment, said she will be making sure her grandkids are staying safe and healthy. While other parents, such as Latasha Lawrence, are hoping schools stay on top of this.

"I think about the kids washing hands, think about if teachers are washing hands; if they're eating in cafeteria, if they're washing hands. It's really a big concern," said Lawrence.

Health officials offered tips to prevent infections and potential viruses from happening.

"Prevention is key, those things we talk about but don't really effectively put into play -- hand-washing 20 seconds, while singing ABCs, when you cough, cough into a tissue then discard it, and wash your hands. Stay away from people who are ill," said Wells.

Click here for more information on the Enterovirus D-68.


About the Authors:

Scott is a multi-Emmy Award Winning Anchor and Reporter, who also hosts the “Going Ringside With The Local Station” Podcast. Scott has been a journalist for 25 years, covering stories including six presidential elections, multiple space shuttle launches and dozens of high-profile murder trials.

Emmy-nominated journalist Kristin Cason joined the News 6 team in June 2016.