MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Two cases of enterovirus D68 have been confirmed in Tennessee by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
One case was in Shelby County, the other in east Tennessee.
We are told both were young children who were hospitalized, but are now home and doing well.
Tennessee had been one of the few states with no confirmed cases.
“As expected, Tennessee has been impacted by enterovirus D68 as have most other states this fall,” said TDH Commissioner John Dreyzehner, MD, MPH. “We have now confirmed two cases, while other samples have tested positive for different, common, seasonal cold viruses. It is also likely other samples will test positive for EV-D68 in the future.
The patient in Shelby County received treatment at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.
“I can’t give any details about the specific case that we have here other than to say that it was several weeks ago, the child did very well, and is home now,” said Dr. Jon McCullers who specializes in pediatric infectious diseases at Le Bonheur.
Enterovirus D68, or EV-D68, is one of more than 60 types of enterovirus which commonly cause cold-like symptoms in people.
“Frequent hand washing will help reduce the chance of infection with this and many other viruses, along with not sharing items such as eating utensils, cups and glasses with those who are sick,” said State Epidemiologist Tim F. Jones.
Dr. McCullers said many viruses can be mild, but parents might want to take their child to a hospital if he or she is having breathing problems.
He added EV-D68 is a viral infection similar to the flu. While there is no preventative vaccine for EV-D68, Dr. McCullers said this is a reminder for Shelby County residents to get their flu shots.
It’s unclear whom the Shelby County patient might have come in contact with.
Shelby County Schools said it has not heard about a child being infected with EV-D68.
Still, some parents in the area are concerned for their children.
“I don’t know a lot about it, but I will be doing my research more now that I know it’s here in Memphis,” parent Mavis Rayborn said.
