Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) can cause severe respiratory illness in otherwise healthy children of all ages, and hospitalized children with non-asthma underlying conditions may be at higher risk for severe outcomes.1

  1. Prevalence: Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a significant cause of respiratory illness, particularly in children, leading to outbreaks and hospitalizations worldwide.
  2. Symptoms: Children infected with EV-D68 primarily experience respiratory symptoms, ranging from mild cold-like signs to severe breathing difficulties.
  3. Prevention: Hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals are crucial measures to prevent EV-D68 transmission.


Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a virus that can cause acute respiratory illness (ARI), ranging from mild symptoms to severe cases. A recent study examined the impact of EV-D68 on children in the United States from 2017 to 2022, using data from the New Vaccine Surveillance Network (NVSN), which spans seven pediatric medical centers across the country.1

The study analyzed 976 children who tested positive for EV-D68, most of whom were identified in 2018 and 2022. Among these children, 856 had EV-D68 infections without any other viral co-detection. About 320 of these children were treated in emergency departments, while 536 required hospitalization. Notably, half of the hospitalized children had no pre-existing medical conditions, and one-third had a history of asthma.1

Researchers found that children with non-asthma underlying medical conditions were at a higher risk of severe outcomes, such as needing supplemental oxygen or intensive care. In contrast, having asthma or reactive airway disease (RAD) did not significantly increase the risk of severe illness.1

The study also highlighted the challenges in EV-D68 surveillance. Testing in the U.S. remains limited, and EV-D68 often presents with asthma-like symptoms, making diagnosis difficult. In 2014, a significant outbreak of EV-D68 in the U.S. raised concerns, particularly due to its link to acute flaccid myelitis, a rare but serious neurological condition.1

The findings emphasize the need for continued surveillance and awareness among healthcare providers. While EV-D68 can cause severe illness in children with underlying conditions, it also poses a risk to otherwise healthy children. These insights can inform clinical management and public health strategies to better protect children from EV-D68.1


Reference

  1. Clopper BR, Lopez AS, Goldstein LA, et al. Enterovirus D68–Associated Respiratory Illness in Children. JAMA Netw Open. 2025;8(5):e259131. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.9131

Image: Enterovirus D68 Virus Particles. Colorized transmission electron micrograph of enterovirus D68 virus particles (green). Micrograph by CDC; repositioned and colorized by NIAID. Credit: CDC and NIAID