Enterovirus D68, a strain of enterovirus respiratory illness identified in 1962 has affected than 220 people in 38 states, and most recently been found in children in Wyoming. As of Thursday, the two cases were reported in Campbell County and Lincoln County, said the state Department of Health.

While the virus has been around for decades now, it has recently been implicated in the hospitalization of children who have presented with more severe symptoms. Typical symptoms of the virus include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, and aching muscles. Children are now presenting with more severe symptoms as wheezing and difficulty breathing.

“In the past, the enterovirus 68 has caused some sporadic or small clusters of respiratory illness,” said Wyoming state epidemiologist Dr. Tracy Murphy. “This year, it seems to be identified in a lot more cases than in the past. Why this year the enterovirus 68 seems to be so common is not known.”

According to Kim Deti of the Health Department, the viruses were only identified upon hospitalization, since doctor’s offices are usually only equipped to test for enterovirus, not the particular subtype. Samples from hospitalized patients have been sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta for confirmation of diagnosis. “Not many people are going to get that subtyping,” said Deti. “Only the children who are seriously ill are going to go to the hospital and get the testing done for that subtyping.”

The trend of hospitalizations has indicated that children with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma are more likely to exhibit severe symptoms of enterovirus D68. Consequently, health officials have warned parents of children with underlying respiratory conditions, to closely monitor their children this season and ensure that all medications and protocols are being administered and followed appropriately.

“What we really want folks to do is pay attention to their kids this season, and if they develop a respiratory illness, just watch it closely to make sure it doesn’t become more severe,” said Dr. Murphy. “If the child starts wheezing, develops labored breath, those would be signs the parents need to seek care from their provider.”

Treatment of the virus for most children has mirrored common cold treatment, being prescribed bed rest, consumption of fluids and acetaminophen for aches and fever. Aspirin should be avoided by children for these types of illnesses, according to Dr. Murphy.

The virus also spreads in the same way the common cold or flu are contracted. As there are no specific antibiotics or vaccines for the virus, it is highly recommended to take the same precautions against contracting other common respiratory illnesses to avoid contracting enterovirus D68.

Such precautions include, but are not limited to: washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding contact with your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands; avoiding physical contact such as hugging, kissing or sharing cups/eating utensils with sick individuals; and frequent disinfection of commonly touched surfaces such as counters, toys, doorknobs, etc.